The Detroit Lions have a slew of defensive issues that they need to resolve before the final five-week stretch of the season. In the midst of a crucial race for a postseason spot in the NFC, the Lions' defense has taken a step back in recent weeks. Giving up a total of 58 points and 876 yards in their last two games, the Lions are now a middle-of-the-pack defensive team in both points and yards allowed.
To make matters worse, Detroit just lost Terrion Arnold to the injured reserve list. Their starting cornerback only lasted 18 snaps on Thursday in his first game back from a concussion before suffering another shoulder injury. He will now miss at least the next four games.
Fortunately, a fascinating new option just emerged for the Lions. The Pittsburgh Steelers just released veteran CB Darius Slay to make room for Asante Samuel Jr., per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. The former Lion is reportedly interested in continuing to play and is keeping his options open, per Ian Rapoport. The 34-year-old defender has to clear waivers before signing with a new team, but he would be an interesting addition for the Lions, who desperately need more depth on the secondary.
Lions Should Pursue Darius Slay After Terrion Arnold's Injury
Slay is obviously not the player he was in Detroit for the first seven years of his career. At the time, he was one of the best corners in the league, making three straight Pro Bowls. His Lions tenure didn't end on a high note as the relationship between Slay and the coaching staff (Matt Patricia, to be exact) soured over the years. He was eventually traded to the Eagles, where he enjoyed plenty of success and won a Super Bowl.
Things haven't gone according to plan for Slay after signing with the Steelers in the 2025 offseason. He gradually lost his starting spot and was a healthy scratch a few times. When he played, however, he was a serviceable option. In nine starts as a Steeler, Slay received a 58.3 defensive grade on Pro Football Focus. While that may be one of the lowest marks of his career, it is still a higher grade than each of Terrion Arnold's two seasons in the NFL.
After Arnold's injury, the Lions have DJ Reed, Amik Robertson, and Rock Ya-Sin in their cornerback rotation. Avonte Maddox and Khalil Dorsey will serve as backups, but the Lions could certainly use one more competent veteran in the mix. It's hard to imagine them finding a more experienced and capable option than Slay at this point in the season.