The Detroit Lions’ 2024 season came to a painful end with a playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, leaving head coach Dan Campbell and the team searching for ways to improve as the offseason begins.
One area that demands immediate attention is the cornerback position. Detroit’s secondary struggled mightily in the final stretch of the season, allowing an average of 305.2 passing yards in the last five games, including three games where they gave up over 323 yards. It’s clear that bolstering the cornerback room will be a top priority for the Lions in the coming months.
Fortunately for the Lions, the perfect solution may have just become available.
Earlier this week, the Miami Dolphins released cornerback Kendall Fuller, a move that could provide Detroit with an opportunity. Fuller, a former third-round pick in 2016, signed a two-year, $15 million contract with the Dolphins last offseason, but his stay in South Beach was brief.
After a career-high season with the Washington Commanders in 2023, Fuller’s 2024 campaign was marred by injuries, limiting him to just 11 appearances—his lowest total in a nine-year career. He finished with 37 solo tackles, seven passes defended, and a fumble recovery.
While it wasn’t a disastrous season, it certainly didn’t justify the price tag he commanded. His Pro Football Coverage grade took a significant dip, falling from 82.8 in his final year with Washington to just 62.4 in his first year with Miami.
Despite his lackluster 2024 performance, Kendall Fuller remains a player the Lions should consider as they plan their next moves in free agency. With other cornerbacks like Carlton Davis, Emmanuel Moseley, and three others set to become free agents next month, Detroit should be actively preparing for potential replacements.
Even if Fuller’s recent season didn’t meet expectations, a change of scenery could help him rediscover his form, especially on a Super Bowl contender like the Lions. Campbell and his staff are known for maximizing player potential, and a revitalized Fuller could prove to be an asset to Detroit’s defense.
If the Lions are interested, they’ll be able to begin negotiations with Fuller once the NFL’s free-agent tampering period kicks off on Monday, March 10.
