The Detroit Lions’ defense faced significant injury setbacks in the 2024 season, but their secondary showed notable improvement compared to last year. A key factor in this progress was the addition of cornerback Carlton Davis.
Davis was traded to the Lions from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on March 13, with Detroit sending a third-round pick in 2024 and two sixth-round picks in 2025 in exchange. His arrival enabled the Lions to implement more man-to-man coverage this season.
However, Davis’ contract with Detroit expires after the Super Bowl. While the Lions will try to retain him, they are likely to face competition from other teams. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently reported that some teams view Davis as the No. 2 corner in the upcoming free agency class, with the Jacksonville Jaguars being one team to watch.
Lions Rumors: Detroit Faces Risk of Losing Cornerback Carlton Davis in Free Agency This Offseason
“Some teams have Davis as the No. 2 corner in the class. Watch for Jacksonville to potentially make a move here. The Jaguars likely won’t be huge spenders in free agency, but they want to fortify their secondary.”
– Jeremy Fowler, ESPN
Carlton Davis had an impressive 2024 season with the Lions. As per PFF, the 28-year-old ended the season ranked 21st among cornerbacks, with a coverage grade of 72.1.
In addition, Davis recorded 56 tackles, two interceptions, two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble, and allowed a competition percentage of 55.3%. His presence significantly helped the Lions’ cornerback unit, covering some of the growing pains of rookie Terrion Arnold. Arnold is expected to keep improving as he enters the next season, but losing Davis would still be a major setback for Detroit’s defense. Keeping Davis would provide the Lions with two elite cornerbacks and allow them to continue with their man-heavy defensive scheme.
Despite defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn’s move to the New York Jets, it’s expected that Detroit’s defensive approach will remain consistent. The Lions promoted linebacker coach Kelvin Sheppard to the role of defensive coordinator. Sheppard, who has spent his entire coaching career in Detroit under Glenn, may bring in some new defensive ideas but likely shares a similar philosophy to Glenn.
In conclusion, while it may be tough for the Lions to retain Davis, they will certainly try their best to keep him in Detroit.
