The Detroit Lions are set to lose several key defensive players to free agency this offseason, including cornerback Carlton Davis.
Davis, a veteran acquired from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last offseason, started 13 games for the Lions before suffering a fractured jaw during their Week 15 loss to the Buffalo Bills, which ended his season.
Despite his season-ending injury in mid-December, the 28-year-old is expected to attract significant interest in free agency. In 2024, Davis recorded two interceptions and 11 passes defended, while allowing just a 59.7% completion rate and an 87.9 passer rating on 72 targets.
The former Auburn standout is among the top defensive backs available this offseason, and Pro Football Focus forecasts he will sign a three-year contract worth $42 million, with $25 million guaranteed. This equates to an average annual value of $14 million.
“PFF wrote, ‘The Tampa Bay Buccaneers traded Davis to the Lions in the offseason, and he provided immediate stability to a young Detroit secondary that badly needed it after the defense endured an unfathomable number of injuries in 2024, most notably to Defensive Player of the Year front-runner Aidan Hutchinson. Davis, too, suffered a season-ending injury — a fractured jaw that ended his season after Week 15.'”
Davis would be a valuable addition to any contender, bringing with him a wealth of playoff experience and 88 career starts since entering the league in 2018.
Although he’s recovering from a major injury, Lions general manager Brad Holmes should prioritize re-signing Davis. He was one of the team’s top defenders this season and is a high-caliber starting corner who also contributes in the run game.
Davis will have many suitors in free agency and is likely to secure a lucrative contract. It wouldn’t be surprising if his deal exceeds PFF’s projection of $14 million annually.
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Detroit Lions QB Jared Goff backs Michigan, picks against Ohio State
The Detroit Lions are gearing up for a significant game against the Washington Commanders on Saturday, but they’re also keeping an eye on the College Football Playoff national championship set for Monday. Ohio State and Notre Dame will battle for the title, and it’s clear many Lions players are invested in the outcome.
When asked to pick a winner while heading into the facility, several Lions players made their choices. However, starting quarterback Jared Goff made sure to make his stance known. He chose Notre Dame to win the championship and, looking directly into the camera, said, “Go Blue.”
Ohio State vs. Notre Dame… who ya got? 🏈🏆 pic.twitter.com/nlgBvlB0L9
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) January 17, 2025
Although Goff played quarterback at Cal in college, he’s been vocal about his support for the Michigan Football program. In fact, Goff has openly identified as part of the maize and blue faithful, particularly when discussing the rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State. When asked by former Michigan offensive lineman Taylor Lewan about the rivalry, Goff was quick to answer.
“You’re in a state that’s very divided from a college standpoint,” Lewan reminded Goff. “Who do you side with, Michigan or Michigan State?”
Without missing a beat, Goff responded, “Michigan, Michigan.” He continued, “And not just because you’re sitting here. It’s just because where I live and nearby here, it’s a lot of Michigan alum. And so, I really don’t know many Michigan State alum personally.”
This may sting a bit for the Spartan fans who also support the Lions, but if Goff leads Detroit to a Super Bowl win, it’s likely those Spartan fans will find a way to forgive him.
