The Detroit Lions utilized the team's fifth-round pick to bring in corner Keith Abney II from Arizona State in a move that added needed depth to the position. However, looking at Abney's resume, it is fair to wonder if a standout summer from the rookie could put a Detroit veteran in harm's way. It is important to note here that, as a fifth-round pick, Abney would truly need to give the Lions reason for incredible confidence to consider a move.
If the rookie is able to exceed expectations, it would make sense for the Lions to explore trading veteran corner, Terrion Arnold. Parting ways with a contract that hasn't aged as expected, as the defensive back has struggled to stay healthy.
While a late-round pick replacing Arnold in the lineup might seem outlandish at first glance, it is important to remember what version of the defender showed up in the 2025 season. The Detroit corner allowed 23 receptions and managed to play only 208 coverage snaps due to injuries and poor performance. This was evidenced by a PFF rating of 52.6 that ranked 92nd out of only 114 qualifiers.
Still, there is reason to wonder if the right team would take on Arnold's remaining contract due to past accomplishments. For the Lions, it would be a chance to embrace youth and part ways with a consistent source of recent frustrations. It is easy to argue that both sides are in need of a fresh start after the recent concerns.
Lions' Draft Decisions Could Set Up Potential Surprise Trade of Terrion Arnold
This is where it is again important to note that the Lions lack the depth to part ways with Arnold is questionable unless Abney gives the franchise reason for confidence. A great summer from the rookie would be more than enough reason to at least begin to consider the potential of trading a player that continues to trend in the wrong direction.
In his college career at Arizona State, Abney II had 98 total tackles, 21 pass deflections, and six interceptions.
Detroit's only argument against this move is opting to sell at an all-time low for a player who has previously been incredibly productive. Still, it is a clear risk to go another season without making a move. If Arnold continues to perform at the level he did a season ago, all potential trade value will be gone, and the Lions are going to be out of options.
With this in mind, there is every reason to have an open conversations to part ways with the veteran and offering a potential fresh start. Detroit could use this as well, with the team's secondary being a source of injuries and frustration throughout the entire 2025 season. Arnold was a big contributor to this, and removing this potential problem in favor of embracing youth is a clear possibility.
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