Detroit Lions: 5 players who may follow Robert Saleh in free agency

Jaquiski Tartt

The Detroit Lions are in dire need of re-shaping their entire defense, and after spending draft choices on both Tracy Walker and Will Harris, both have become expendable. I’ve hoped to see both safties take a step forward in 2020, but both have struggled mightily at times.

The Lions’ top safety in 2020 has been former New England Patriot Duron Harmon.  After that, you could argue recently released Jayron Kearse had been more productive than both Harris and Walker.

Jaquiski Tartt would quickly become the Lions’ top safety if the Lions were lucky to sign him in free agency especially if the team fails to retain Harmon.  After spending six seasons with the 49ers, his time there may be coming to an end.

Former 49ers safety Donte Whitner recently envisioned Tartt following his current DC, Robert Saleh where ever he goes;

"“Tartt is pretty much the quarterback of this defense when he’s back there,” Whitner said. “He does all the communicating. If Saleh is going to take this cover-3 system over to Detroit or wherever he lands, he’s going to need somebody who can react and can call out the defense and take control back there.”"

Tartt is a pending free agent coming off of a deal that averages $6.27 million.  Tartt has been battling a turf toe injury that prematurely shut down his 2020 season.

Tartt is a strong safety that excels playing in the box.  His skill-set would pair perfectly with Duron Harmon or Richard Sherman (if he’s destined to become a safety), who are both better in coverage than they are at defending the run.