Over the past couple of years, the Detroit Lions have had the utmost confidence in Terrion Arnold. The former first-round pick looked like a star in the making in college and possessed all the physical tools to dominate in the NFL once he found his footing as a pro.
His rookie season didn't go as expected. He didn't record a single interception, and he was on the wrong end of multiple big plays. Then, in year two, injuries limited him to just eight appearances, and he wasn't much better when healthy.
Nevertheless, Detroit's approach to free agency shows it hasn't given up on him yet. They re-signed Rock Ya-Sin, who should be a backup, and the recently signed Roger McCreary will play in the slot. As such, it's time Arnold finally pays back that confidence on the field.
Terrion Arnold Must Start Living Up to His Potential
Over two seasons with the Lions, Arnold has given up 77 receptions on 133 targets. His 57.9 percent successful catch rate is far from impressive, and he actually regressed in year two. He's also allowed seven touchdowns in 24 career games, and he was on pace to give up six last season alone.
Arnold has given up 13.1 yards per completion, 260 yards after the catch, and an opposing passer rating of 96.3. Those numbers aren't necessarily terrible, but Arnold's regression in his second season only raises questions about his future, especially given that he was a first-round selection.
Pro Football Focus gave him a 52.6 grade last season, which ranked 97th among 114 eligible cornerbacks. He was also dreadful against the run (47.1, 95th), despite only playing 103 run defense snaps.
Granted, giving up on young, talented players after two seasons isn't always the appropriate approach, so the Lions are doing the right thing by sticking with him. That said, they're a team with Super Bowl aspirations, and they can't afford to have such a weak link holding them back; he's been a major liability in the end zone, and opposing teams are constantly attacking him because they know he's the Achilles heel in the secondary.
With Taylor Decker no longer in the building, the Lions will probably use their first-round pick on an offensive lineman, so Arnold should be in the clear for now. That said, adding another cornerback to the mix at some point in the draft wouldn't be the craziest idea. Otherwise, they might have to explore the trade market if he struggles again early in the season.
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