The Detroit Lions have been suggested to add a veteran safety to fill out their roster before the season.
The Detroit Lions have finalized their roster for the start of the 2024 season and appear stronger at several positions after a productive offseason.
Nevertheless, there might still be some gaps to fill before the season kicks off, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Although Brad Holmes made significant additions to the defensive backfield through free agency and the draft, there may still be an area that needs attention.
Bleacher Report assessed each team’s major weakness before the season started and pointed out the Lions’ defensive backfield as a notable concern. They suggested that adding Jalen Mills, a Super Bowl-winning safety who has played for the Philadelphia Eagles, New England Patriots, and briefly with the New York Giants, could be a potential solution.
Dan Campbell explains Detroit Lions’ open roster spot before season opener
The report suggests, “The Lions’ need for a cornerback was well-documented this offseason, and although the front office made several additions, bringing in one more player could be beneficial, especially with Emmanuel Moseley on injured reserve.”
“Mills would be a strong addition due to his versatility, as he can cover both boundary and slot positions and also play safety if needed. Having him as a backup would be advantageous, and his 73.5 passer rating against him last year, according to Pro Football Focus, would be a positive asset.”
Mills could help address the gap left by Ifeatu Melifonwu’s injury, if it turns out to be a lingering issue that extends over multiple weeks.
Technically, the Lions could sign Mills right away since they currently have only 52 players on their roster. However, this number is expected to change before their season opener against the Los Angeles Rams.
Dan Campbell was asked about the decision to leave a roster spot open before the season.
He explained, “It’s about flexibility. Keeping that spot open gives us the ability to make a move if needed, whether that means adding someone. We should have a clear idea within the next 24 to 48 hours of how we want to approach this game and the roster decisions involved. This flexibility allows us to adjust our roster, practice squad, and veteran squad as necessary.”
If the defense identifies a need in the coming days, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Lions consider adding a veteran like Mills.
