Talent-wise wise it is clear the NFC is an arms race between the Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles. Even after Philly's surprise loss to the New York Giants, you aren't going to find two more talented rosters in the conference.
With this in mind, any top remaining targets in free agency or the trade market are likely to come down to the two contenders if said player wants to land in the NFC. This is especially the case when it comes to potential targets in the secondary. If there is one obvious weakness on both rosters, it is a lack of defensive back depth.
This means the Lions must jump on the opportunity and sign Asante Samuel Jr. before the Eagles do. It was a penalty on corner Kelee Ringo that cemented Philly's loss to the New York Giants on Thursday Night Football, driving home the urgency for an upgrade at the position. While Samuel is still recovering from offseason surgery, the timeline of his return will soon be determined, with the experienced corner expected to be able to play when the games matter most.
The Lions Must Beat the Eagles to the Punch Signing Free Agent Corner Asante Samuel Jr.
While Samuel was expected to wait for a return timeline to sign with a team, the Lions have a chance to skip the line. Hand the corner an incentive-laced deal that is too good to pass up, built around the expectation that he will return. If he signs, he would be joining the franchise with the best record in the NFC and a defense that Samuel would seamlessly fit into. All making it clear that the move needs to be made by a quiet Detroit front office.
It is understandable that limited moves are being made with the Lions clicking and getting off to such a great start. However, there is no arguing against the lesson last season's injuries taught and the need to continually attempt to get better. Bringing in Samuel gives you a chance to improve your weakest unit for a fraction of the cost if the corner was hitting the market when healthy.
All adding up to a needed sense of urgency to beat Philly in improving the secondary by adding the best option left on the market. While veteran Stephon Gilmore remains an option as well, the aging defensive back is a question mark as to what he has left in the tank.
Samuel is a known contributor, with the only concern being how quickly the former Charger can take the field. A risk that is well worth taking in a move that could prove to help push the Lions over the top in a conference that appears to be a two-team race.