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4 Lions Who Could Leave Detroit to Follow Aaron Glenn

By Richard Louis

Aaron Glenn is introduced as the new head coach of the New York Jets at a press conference at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center on Jan. 27, 2025. Glenn, who played eight seasons with the Jets, had been the Lions' defensive coordinator since 2021.
Aaron Glenn is introduced as the new head coach of the New York Jets at a press conference at the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center on Jan. 27, 2025. Glenn, who played eight seasons with the Jets, had been the Lions' defensive coordinator since 2021. / Kevin R. Wexler / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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3. Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB

Cornerback Ifeatu Melifonwu is another free agent from the 2021 draft class. He was a third-round pick for the Lions and gave them an athletic depth piece. This season, he suited up in three games due to ankle and finger injuries.

Melifonwu was used as a blitzer a ton by Glenn due to his speed and length. In 37 career games, he logged 72 total tackles, 4.5 sacks, two interceptions, and 13 pass deflections. He and Glenn developed a good relationship over the past four years.

The Jets have D.J. Reed and Brandin Echols hitting free agency. Bringing in Melifonwu would give the Jets an athletic defender with knowledge of Glenn's tendencies.

4. Carlton Davis III, CB

To stay on the same theme, cornerbacks are a need for the Jets. They have Sauce Gardner on the outside and Michael Carter in the slot. Regardless, they are going to need another outside corner.

Davis III is going to hit free agency after spending one season with the Lions. Last March, Detroit acquired him from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for a 2024 third-round pick. Prior to fracturing his jaw, Davis III was a steady defender.

In 13 games, the Auburn product finished with 56 total tackles, 11 pass deflections, two interceptions, and one forced fumble. According to PFF, he logged a 74.5 overall grade (29th among 223 eligible corners) and a 72.1 coverage grade (38th among 223 eligible corners).

There's a pathway for the 28-year-old to sign a one or two-year deal with the Jets. He was a consistent defender on the backend and could re-join Glenn in New York. There will be multiple suitors for Davis III on the open market.

Teams are always looking for quality corners and the Jets could have an edge due to the connection with Glenn.

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