After missing the playoffs in 2025, the Detroit Lions want to make sure history doesn't repeat itself next season. The ongoing offseason will be an important first step in that process as Detroit lures free agents to fill holes and supplements depth in the draft; however, the league’s salary cap is a big hurdle that general manager Brad Holmes must navigate, especially if he wants to keep players around.
One name that could be on that list is nickel cornerback Amik Robertson. With the Lions facing major questions in the secondary next season, keeping Robertson would be one way to establish some continuity, despite Spotrac listing his market projection at $3.9 million per season.
Although a re-signing seemed unlikely early in the offseason, the Lions may have gotten some relief with the official announcement of next year’s salary cap. With NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reporting a $22 million jump to $301.2 million per team, it makes Detroit’s free agent shopping a little easier, while increasing the odds of Robertson staying in the Motor City.
Lions' Amik Robertson Re-Signing Odds Get a Huge Boost from NFL Cap Increase
Lions fans may not be sure if the latest salary cap-related news is a good thing.
Robertson was successful in his first season with Detroit, allowing 47 catches for 601 yards and two touchdowns with seven pass breakups and four penalties (two declined), according to Pro Football Focus. Much to everyone's dismay, his performance took a turn for the worse in 2025, allowing 65 catches for 817 yards and six touchdowns with an interception, nine pass breakups, and three penalties (one declined).
Last season’s performance may have been the final straw for Lions fans, but there’s a strong case for Robertson to return. As the primary slot corner, Robertson could answer one question for Holmes if he returns, while also leaving the chance for oft-injured cornerback Ennis Rakestraw to win the job during the offseason program and training camp.
Set to turn 28 in July, there’s a good chance Robertson can bounce back in 2026.
In the three seasons before last year, Robertson averaged a 63.6 overall rating from PFF and has been a serviceable cornerback, even if he’s been bit by a few big plays. A re-signing could also allow general manager Brad Holmes to focus on adding depth at the outside cornerback spots, as D.J. Reed and Terrion Arnold are both coming off injury-plagued campaigns.
With the cap going up, it may be a case of how much change the Lions want this offseason. If they want to keep some of the system in place, keeping Robertson at a cheap rate could be a good strategy, with the possibility that a young player takes his spot. Although he may want a multi-year deal, the Lions could load up the contract early and move on after next season.
For what it’s worth, Robertson has expressed a desire to return to Detroit, and as a team that needs plenty of help on defense, the Lions can’t let everyone walk out the door. Some extra money could help prevent that potential headache, allowing Robertson to stick around for one more year.