The Detroit Lions are facing a significant gap in their secondary as their top cornerback, Carlton Davis, is set to become an unrestricted free agent with no clear signs of returning. Analyst Vito Chirco of SI.com suggests the Lions could address this need by targeting Buffalo Bills cornerback Rasul Douglas, an eight-year veteran who has been a consistent performer.
Douglas, who joined the Bills in a 2023 trade with the Green Bay Packers, played a key role in Buffalo’s defense, helping them reach the AFC Championship game last season. In 24 games with the Bills over 2023 and 2024, Douglas recorded 87 tackles, 13 passes defensed, four interceptions, two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble, and a sack. While his coverage grade from Pro Football Focus was 58.9 last season, he has historically been a reliable defensive back with a knack for interceptions.
Chirco notes that Spotrac projects Douglas’s market value at approximately $12 million per year over three years, totaling just under $36 million. He believes Douglas would be a solid addition at the right price but advises against overpaying for the veteran.
Meanwhile, Carlton Davis has hinted on social media that he won’t accept a discounted deal, stating, “I won’t make the same mistake twice. If you want your defense upgraded, y’all know who to pay. Turn on the tape!” Davis started 13 games for the Lions last season, tallying 56 tackles, two interceptions, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries. Acquired from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Davis played on the final year of a three-year, $44 million contract, which he restructured upon joining Detroit. However, injuries, including a broken jaw and thumb, limited his availability.
The Lions also need to address other defensive weaknesses, particularly their pass rush. While star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson has been impactful, the team lacks depth behind him. No other player surpassed Hutchinson’s 7.5 sacks before he suffered a season-ending injury in October.
Nathan Dougherty, a sports reporter covering the NFL for Heavy.com, specializes in the Buffalo Bills, Detroit Lions, and Miami Dolphins. Based in Rochester, New York, Dougherty brings extensive experience from his previous roles at the Rochester Business Journal and as an assistant editor for athletic trade magazines.
