Following a disastrous showing in the divisional playoff round against the Washington Commanders, where their injury-plagued defense struggled immensely, the Detroit Lions must prioritize improving their defensive unit in 2025.
In addition to needing more edge rushers, the Lions face a critical decision in the secondary as starting cornerback Carlton Davis is set to hit free agency. If Davis departs, the team would rely on a starting trio of Terrion Arnold, Ennis Rakestraw Jr., and Amik Robertson.
The main concern with this group is the lack of experience. Arnold has only one season of play, and Rakestraw’s situation is uncertain after missing much of the 2024 season due to injury.
In a recent article identifying trade targets for the offseason, Bleacher Report’s Kris Knox suggests the Lions could pursue Cleveland Browns cornerback Greg Newsome. He also mentions that the Green Bay Packers may be interested.
The Lions could certainly benefit from a young cornerback of Newsome’s caliber, particularly with 2024 starter Carlton Davis set to enter free agency. Despite some injury issues, Detroit ranked 30th in passing yards allowed this past season.
The Green Bay Packers are also likely to show interest if Newsome becomes available. Eric Stokes has not lived up to expectations alongside Jaire Alexander, and Stokes is also slated to be a free agent. Newsome’s ability to play both inside and outside would be a valuable asset in defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley’s system.
Newsome, entering the final year of his rookie contract, is coming off a season where he allowed a completion rate of 62.7% and a passer rating of 112.5 when targeted.
It was a down year for Newsome, as his previous two seasons saw him giving up completion rates of 58% or lower and passer ratings of 84.6 or less. Given this, a change of scenery could help him return to form.
Bringing in Newsome would provide the Lions with some much-needed experience in the secondary, along with versatility for both the slot and outside positions, areas in which he has played throughout his career.
Ultimately, the Lions will need to add a veteran cornerback to their roster given the uncertainty in the secondary heading into 2025. If Davis moves on, Newsome would be an excellent addition.
