Once the offseason began, the Detroit Lions appeared poised to part ways with cornerback Amik Robertson, who struggled in the 2025 season and didn't appear to have a clear starting role. Both D.J. Reed and Terrion Arnold are under contract for the 2026 season, lessening the urgency for the Lions to find a way to re-sign Robertson. However, it seems the corner could be open to returning on a team-friendly deal if his latest comments are any indication.
Robertson's comments come via Woodward Sports Network, with the corner offering a ringing endorsement of the franchise, “I fit great (in Detroit)… I want to be back, I very much do.”
This is incredibly high praise for a defender coming off a down year with a franchise that missed the playoffs unexpectedly. The praise might also be enough to convince the Lions to run things back, whether fans are on board or not.
Amik Robertson Sparks Potential Redemption Story with Lions
According to Pro Football Focus, Robertson allowed career-worsts in receptions (66), yards (821), and touchdowns (six) during the 2025 campaign. Still, Robertson is familiar with the system and has been productive in seasons past. A reunion under specific circumstances requiring Robertson to swallow a bit of his pride is an increasing possibility.
For Robertson to return, it will require the defender heading into the offseason understanding that his struggles and Detroit's roster limit his potential payday. The Lions can only offer a one-year prove-it deal that comes with next to no guarantees. This is due to limited cap space ($13.4 million, per Spotrac) and the fact that there is no reason to trust the defensive back after this year's struggles.
With this in mind, Detroit still has an avenue to an offseason reunion with the understanding that all of the pressure is on Robertson. How desperately the corner wants to return is what is going to determine his offseason fate. It is impossible to believe that better offers won't be out there with Detroit having far more pressing needs and the stability of Arnold and Reed returning.
Still, fans can't help but hope for a redemptive story for Robertson after injuries defined the 2025 secondary and left the Lions desperately searching for improved depth. Having the comfort of Robertson returning on a low-risk deal while providing upside would be a great offseason move.
One that the Lions are certainly willing to make, and judging from Robertson's comments, it seems the door is now open. The only question is whether the Lions would prefer to look to the draft to bring in additional depth, or if the franchise will opt to go with a player they know who clearly needs redeeming.