ESPN's Jeremy Fowler Predicts Trade Destination for Detroit Lions' Carlton Davis

Carlton Davis is expected to draw significant interest in free agency, and a new AFC team has now been added to his list of potential destinations.

When Davis arrived last March, he confidently stated that he would be exactly what the Detroit Lions needed in a No. 1 cornerback. He backed up that claim by allowing a 77.0 passer rating and keeping opposing quarterbacks to a completion rate below 56% over 13 games. Pro Football Focus ranked him as the 21st-best cornerback, grading him highly for both coverage and run support.

The Lions knew when they acquired Davis that he was in the final year of his contract, and his strong play has set him up for a lucrative 2025 free agency. His late-season injury—a broken jaw—was unfortunate, but he remains one of the top available cornerbacks.

With former Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn now the head coach of the New York Jets, there has been speculation about whether he will pursue Davis in free agency. The Lions will likely want to keep him, but several other teams could also enter the mix.

NFL Insider Identifies New AFC Team in Race for Davis

Davis was ranked No. 23 in ESPN’s list of the top 50 free agents for 2025, just 11 days ahead of Super Bowl LIX.

“Davis started 13 games for the Lions before a broken jaw placed him on injured reserve. He has both man and zone coverage skills, giving him flexibility in the market. Additionally, he is a strong tackler on the perimeter. Over seven seasons, he has recorded 11 interceptions and 68 pass breakups, proving his ability to disrupt plays.”

NFL insider Jeremy Fowler provided additional insight into Davis’ free agency prospects.

“Some teams see Davis as the second-best cornerback in this class. Keep an eye on Jacksonville as a potential suitor. The Jaguars may not be big spenders in free agency, but they are looking to strengthen their secondary.”

Jacksonville had the worst pass defense in the NFL this season, allowing 257.4 yards per game, and ranked near the bottom in several other defensive metrics. They could certainly use a player like Davis, though their reluctance to spend heavily in free agency might limit their chances of landing him. However, Davis’ history of minor injuries—he has never played more than 14 games in a season—could keep his price in check.

There are always numerous teams in need of cornerback help. If Davis is viewed as the second-best cornerback on the market, a bidding war could drive his price beyond what the Lions are willing to pay. The Jaguars might emerge as serious contenders, or they could simply drive up the price, making it more difficult for other teams to sign him.

Tags: Carlton Davis