The Detroit Lions' depth on the secondary has been tested all season as injuries decimated their defensive backfield rotation all season. One constant who has been available every single game has been cornerback Amik Robertson. His versatility has come in handy on various occasions as he can line up in the slot and on the outside.
In recent weeks, however, Robertson has not had his best performances, contributing to Detroit's defensive struggles. It could also lead to a shift in how the Lions see him once his contract expires at the end of the season.
Against the Giants, Robertson was targeted 12 times in coverage, giving up eight catches for 100 yards, per Pro Football Focus. He received one of the lowest grades among the Lions' defenders with 50.6. As a result of missing two tackles, he got a 42.8 tackling grade. That's without mentioning how his 20.5% missed tackle rate, 64.4% completion rate allowed, and four TDs surrendered are all worse than last year's effort.
This has been the concerning continuation of a trend. Robertson hasn't received an average defensive grade (60.0) in his last four starts. He missed four tackles and allowed 17 catches in those two games. The Lions have been vulnerable in the air, as demonstrated by the Giants' deep throws down the field on Sunday, averaging over 20 yards per reception.
Amik Robertson's Offseason Fate Is Now in Jeopardy
Robertson's availability and consistency have been important for the Lions. He bounced back from the broken arm he suffered in the playoffs against the Washington Commanders and increased his workload. He is a useful depth piece, but he has been thrust into a larger role than he can handle this season, playing almost every defensive snap since Week 5. Last season, Robertson had better stats across the board because he almost exclusively played at nickel until the last four weeks of the season.
By all accounts, the Lions are high on Robertson, but they will have a decision to make in the offseason. With Terrion Arnold also not establishing himself as a quality starter on the outside, should the Lions bring Robertson back and make him an important part of the defense?
The Lions seem to have a good eye for secondary talent. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard has been able to patch together productive groups out of backups and practice squad members. Rock Ya-Sin, Arthur Maulet, Nick Whiteside, and Thomas Harper have all played well above expectations when called upon this season, for the most part. One has to wonder whether it makes more sense to try to find another hidden gem instead of paying Robertson, especially if he continues to struggle in this manner when every game matters more than the last.