The Detroit Lions came into the 2025 season with high hopes that second-year cornerback Terrion Arnold would build on what was a promising rookie campaign. After showing flashes of strong coverage skills in 2024, the organization expected him to take the next step toward becoming a reliable starter on the outside. Instead, Arnold’s performance through the first three games has raised concerns.
Last season, the Alabama product allowed a completion rate of just 55.6% and posted a passer rating against of 93.7. Those numbers weren’t elite, but they were solid for a rookie learning on the fly. This year, however, opposing quarterbacks are finding much more success when throwing in his direction. Arnold’s completion rate allowed has climbed to 72.7%, and his Pro Football Focus coverage grade of 44.0 ranks him 130th out of 158 qualifying cornerbacks. Simply put, the sophomore corner is off to a rough start.
What makes his struggles stand out even more is the level of play from veteran D.J. Reed, who has been steady and consistent since joining the Lions in the offseason. While Reed has been dependable, Arnold’s mistakes have made him a clear target for opposing offenses.
Head coach Dan Campbell addressed Arnold’s play during a recent radio appearance on 97.1 The Ticket. Campbell expressed belief in his young corner’s long-term potential but also acknowledged the team might need to make short-term adjustments.
“He’s a young player, and he’s going to get better,” Campbell said. “Every second-year guy goes through ups and downs, and we’ve just got to keep working through it. He’ll be fine, but in the meantime, we’ll probably use Amik Robertson a little more too. Amik’s a good player, and we’ll mix it up.”
Campbell’s comments stopped short of saying Arnold’s job is in jeopardy, but the message was unmistakable: improvement is needed, or his snaps could be reduced.
Robertson, who has primarily manned the slot in Detroit, brings experience on the outside as well. Back in 2023 with the Las Vegas Raiders, he earned a PFF coverage grade of 65.8 while holding opposing quarterbacks to a 59.1% completion rate and an 87.4 passer rating—the best marks of his career. That track record gives the Lions confidence that he can handle boundary duties if Arnold continues to falter.
The Lions don’t want to limit Arnold’s playing time after investing a first-round draft pick in him. Developing young talent is a key part of their long-term vision. However, Campbell has consistently emphasized accountability, and no player is immune if their performance slips. For Arnold, the next several weeks could prove pivotal in determining whether he cements himself as a starter—or finds himself sharing snaps with a veteran teammate.
