The Detroit Lions have punched way above their weight on the defensive side of the ball this season. Despite being severely short-handed, especially in the secondary, defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard has done wonders with the defensive unit. The defense is ranked 13th in points allowed and eighth in total yards allowed through the first nine weeks of the season. Yet, that doesn't mean that the Lions should ignore real depth and quality concerns.
The cornerback room has especially been decimated in Detroit. DJ Reed, Ennis Rakestraw Jr., and Khalil Dorsey all remain on the injured reserve list. Terrion Arnold was able to return from his injury, but the Lions' rotation leaves plenty to be desired. Fortunately, they may now have a way to upgrade the rotation without giving up anything in a trade. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that free agent CB Asante Samuel Jr. has now been fully cleared to return to playing. He would be a fascinating addition for the Lions.
Lions Should Seriously Consider Signing CB Asante Samuel Jr.
Samuel had missed all but four games last season due to stinger symptoms in his shoulders. He had to undergo a spinal fusion procedure, and now it sounds like he is ready to return to action.
The former Charger hasn't lived up to the potential he came into the league with, but he has shown flashes and a fascinating upside during his time in LA. He is undersized and lacks physicality, consistently struggling with tackling, but he is a smart defender with good coverage skills. He lacks versatility because of his size and has to be an outside corner exclusively. Yet, he offers a higher ceiling than the rest of Detroit's cornerback rotation thanks to his speed, athleticism, and instincts.
The Lions currently start Terrion Arnold and Amik Robertson on the outside, and have Arthur Maulet and Avonte Maddox in the slot. Robertson and Arnold were two of the three worst Lions defenders on the field on Sunday, according to Pro Football Focus. Even though Arnold got his first career interception against the Vikings, he currently ranks 101st out of 107 eligible cornerbacks in the NFL, per PFF.
Plus, Arnold had to leave the game temporarily with another injury concern. He is playing through a shoulder injury that was expected to rule him out for the season. This may have contributed to the fact that he missed three tackles and struggled in run defense throughout Sunday's game. He can be a frustrating player with his avoidable penalties and consistent mistakes.
It's not like Robertson has been that much better. He has allowed 66.7% completion, four touchdowns, and a 117.2 passer rating in coverage. He could be better suited in a slot cornerback role.
Samuel could easily be the best cornerback among the healthy options in Detroit. While the Lions have seemingly been more focused on the offensive line and the pass rush when looking for upgrades, they should seriously consider targeting a low-risk, high-reward option like Samuel.