After Monday's news that the Detroit Lions will be without starting cornerback Terrion Arnold for an extended period of time, the need to add to their secondary is undeniable. The Lions only have Rock Ya-Sin, Tre Flowers, Amik Robertson, and Avonte Maddox healthy in the cornerback room, and that is obviously not a group that has the necessary depth, talent, or experience to make Detroit feel good about its defense. The eventual return of DJ Reed will obviously help, but the Lions need help right away.
Trading for a cornerback remains an option. With the November 4 trade deadline less than a month away, GM Brad Holmes could try to swing for a trade to fill the team's need. Another option is to turn to the free agent market. While the remaining unsigned players might be slim pickings in other positions, there actually are decent depth options at cornerback. Veterans like Kendall Fuller, James Bradberry, and Asante Samuel Jr. could be worth a look, but the best option that the Lions have is five-time Pro Bowler Stephon Gilmore.
Stephon Gilmore and Lions May Be Match Made in Heaven
The former Defensive Player of the Year is not the dominant force he was earlier in his career, when he helped the New England Patriots win a Super Bowl. It would be ridiculous to think he can still be that player at this stage of his career. However, he has been remarkably reliable and productive over the last several years. Playing for five different teams in the past five years, Gilmore has remained a difference-maker at each destination, starting a total of 48 games during the past three seasons.
The 35-year-old defender spent last season with the Minnesota Vikings and started 15 games, including the two against the Lions. Playing 87% of the team's defensive snaps, Gilmore had eight pass breakups and an interception while allowing a 100.6 passer rating in coverage. He finished the season with a 63.9 overall defensive grade on Pro Football Focus. Since that is the lowest grade for Gilmore in four seasons, that may seem underwhelming, but it's important to note that it is higher than the level Amik Robertson and Terrion Arnold have been playing at for the Lions this season.
Gilmore has been looking to win his second Lombardi Trophy ever since he left the Patriots. It eluded him during his stints in Indianapolis, Dallas, and Minnesota. Signing with the Lions would give him the best chance he's had to win a Super Bowl since leaving New England. Considering how he is the best cornerback available on the market, it could be a match made in heaven between the Lions and the experienced veteran.