The Detroit Lions have continued to struggle to rely on corner Terrion Arnold, with the defensive back offering an inconsistent level of play throughout the 2025 season, most recently ending with a trip to IR due to a shoulder injury. There is a level of angst among fans and pundits regarding what exactly Detroit can expect from Arnold moving forward. There is no question that the injuries and inconsistent play have opened the defender up to criticism. Shockingly, former NFL receiver Steve Smith isn't counted among those doubting Arnold's ability.
Via Woodward Sports Network, the former receiver spoke to Arnold, offering, “Terrion, you’re a heck of a football player, man, it’s unfortunate with you, you can ball." Smith furthered these comments by offering to sit down with Arnold and review the defender's tape. It was a respectful exchange that offered the corner an unexpected ally amid questions surrounding his future.
Smith hasn't been shy in the past about going after current players, including Jerry Jeudy and Keon Coleman, in recent seasons. The Carolina Panthers legend isn't shy about sharing his opinion, and it was telling that he offered such high praise for the struggling defender. It was also done without setup or any push for positivity; the sign-off spoke to a level of genuine respect between the two players.
NFL Legend Steve Smith Builds Up Struggling Lions CB Terrion Arnold
It was a needed boost for Arnold, who isn't likely to return until the playoffs. The corner will be forced to miss at least three more weeks after being placed on IR. This is obviously far from ideal for a team that badly needs a boost in the secondary. Detroit's defense hasn't been performing up to expectations, and that has contributed to the recent struggles that have left the Lions on the outside looking in of the playoff race.
Still, there is no denying that having Steve Smith in his corner is a positive for Arnold. The corner has to be struggling after failing to play at a consistent level and dealing with constant injuries. Having Smith gas him up as the team goes into a pivotal stretch without Arnold is a great look for both parties involved.
For the Lions, the franchise has to hope that this is an outlier and Arnold can return to the consistent level of play fans had grown to expect. If Detroit makes any kind of deep January run, Arnold returning and being a viable starting option capable of slowing down star receivers in the playoffs must occur. Fans have to hope that Smith's takeaway proves true, and when the defensive back returns, the Lions find the best version of him.