The Detroit Lions find themselves in a unique position on the defensive side of the ball as NFL free agency approaches. The team boasts a strong defense with two of the league’s top safeties and an edge rusher who is a frontrunner for the upcoming Defensive Player of the Year award. However, despite these impressive pieces, the team has faced challenges at cornerback.
Though they traded for Carlton Davis and drafted two cornerbacks last year, the position remains a weak spot, with Davis set to hit free agency and the two young corners still uncertain. Given their struggles at cornerback, the Lions are expected to explore free-agent options, potentially targeting a player with Super Bowl experience.
In a recent article, USA Today’s Jacob Camenker suggested that the Lions might pursue Charvarius Ward, cornerback for the San Francisco 49ers. Ward’s recent season wasn’t his best—he posted his worst numbers since his rookie year, with a 61.5% completion percentage and 7.5 yards per target allowed.
However, this might not deter the Lions, as the team’s primary focus this offseason has been on adding talent to the edge, particularly to pair with Aidan Hutchinson. Yet, cornerback is the more pressing need, with fewer high-quality free-agent options available to fill the CB1 role. By the time they pick in the first round of the draft, their choices for cornerbacks may be limited.
While Ward’s disappointing 2024 season raises concerns, he is still in his prime and has proven his ability to perform at a high level in the past. The Lions are expected to make a strong push for him this offseason to help solidify their cornerback position for the 2025 season.
