Potential Star Cornerback Seen as Lions’ Best 2025 Free Agent Target…
The Detroit Lions have several intriguing options to consider in free agency, but according to Pro Football Focus, targeting a top-tier cornerback could be their best move this offseason.
While upgrading the pass rush remains the Lions’ primary focus, strengthening the secondary is just as crucial after a disappointing end to the season. With Carlton Davis potentially becoming too expensive to retain, Detroit may need to explore other options on the market.
One of the most compelling possibilities is D.J. Reed, formerly of the New York Jets. With 414 career tackles and six interceptions, Reed is among the top available cornerbacks and could be a great fit in Detroit.
Pro Football Focus writer Bradley Locker highlighted the best free-agent fits for each team, and Reed emerged as the ideal match for the Lions due to his playing style.
“Last season, Detroit relied heavily on Cover 1, using it on 33.7% of snaps. Since 2022, Reed has posted a 70.7 PFF coverage grade in Cover 1, ranking 12th among qualified cornerbacks. Despite a slight dip in performance, he still recorded his sixth straight season with a PFF coverage grade above 70.0.”
“With Carlton Davis III no longer under contract, the Lions will need reinforcements in the secondary. Holding $51 million in cap space and aiming for a Super Bowl push, Detroit has the financial flexibility to make a high-impact move like signing Reed.”
Last year, the Lions addressed their cornerback needs by acquiring the underrated Davis via trade. In the past, they have opted for value signings at the position with mixed results. Could 2025 be the year they take a bigger swing in free agency?
Lions Face Decision: Invest Heavily in a Cornerback or Pass Rusher?
With a top-10 cap space total in 2025, the Lions have the flexibility to be aggressive in free agency. However, general manager Brad Holmes has typically avoided major spending sprees, making it likely that Detroit will prioritize one position over the other.
The Lions have already been linked to potential trades for Myles Garrett, recently released Joey Bosa, and other top-tier pass rushers. After Aidan Hutchinson’s injury in 2024 exposed their lack of defensive line depth, reinforcing the pass rush may take precedence.
On the other hand, the Lions could opt for a more cost-effective approach in the secondary, potentially targeting a veteran like Darius Slay instead of higher-priced options like Reed, Byron Murphy Jr., or Charvarius Ward. If the pass rush improves significantly, the team might rely on younger cornerbacks Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw to develop under Slay’s guidance.
Still, early speculation suggests that Reed, one of the premier cornerbacks available, would be the best fit for Detroit. Whether Holmes chooses to make that move remains to be seen.
