Detroit Lions roster preview: Cornerbacks
By Matt Bosko
The Detroit Lions’ cornerbacks were stout and opportunistic in 2017, and several free agent acquisitions have added depth to an already seasoned group.
In order for the Detroit Lions to come out on top in the NFC North, skilled defenders against the pass is an absolute necessity; a quarter of the Lions’ schedule is against Aaron Rodgers and Kirk Cousins.
The Lions have an elite talent at the cornerback position in Darius Slay. They also have a promising second-round pick from 2017 in Teez Tabor. Solid role players round out the supporting cast.
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Darius Slay
The self-proclaimed “Big Play Slay” has lived up to his own billing. He has developed into a true lockdown corner, he is one of the best in the entire league. His physicality, speed, and instincts set the tone for the rest of the group, and the Lions will rely upon his skill set heavily in 2018.
Teez Tabor
One of Quinn’s most controversial draft picks from a year ago, Tabor essentially red-shirted in his rookie season. The Lions were fortunate to have enough depth last season so that one of the youngest players in the NFL had enough time to learn and adjust. By season’s end, Tabor carved out a small role in the defensive backfield. The expectation is that he will compete for a starting job opposite Slay in his sophomore season.
While not considered a marquee signing, Shead brings valuable experience to the Lions. He is the oldest corner on the roster, and at age 29, still has a high floor of ability. Even if he does not land a starting job – a difficult task given the talent around him – his presence gives the team solid depth at a premium position.
Last season, Agnew showed that he can really do it all. He was able to demonstrate explosiveness in all three phases of the game last season, most notably on special teams. People forget, however, that Agnew has legitimate collegiate experience at the cornerback position. He is speedy and dynamic. He worked his way into the defensive rotation at the end of last season. Do not be surprised if Patricia finds creative ways to have Agnew on the field in a wide variety of situations.
The Lions went out and brought Nevin Lawson back on a two-year deal in March. His ceiling is limited, as his first four seasons with the team have shown, but he certainly has value. He split playing time last year with D.J.
Hayden, and was more than serviceable when called upon. Lawson may not be a No. 2 corner we all hope he would become, but in Patricia’s defense, will still be a key role player in the defensive backfield.
Next: Previewing the Lions' linebacking corps
As for the rest of the cornerbacks on the Lions’ current roster, it is tough to envision a scenario where any beat out these five, barring injury. The remaining players are all rookies, and while it would be nice to find a diamond in the rough during training camp, the Lions appear set at this position group.