The Detroit Lions have faced significant losses in their secondary lately, with one analyst recommending that the team might require veteran assistance for the playoffs.

The Lions placed cornerbacks Carlton Davis III and Khalil Dorsey on injured reserve, a major setback for an already depleted secondary. Although the Lions have players on the roster who can help address the gap, Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder indicated that they might need to explore free agency to enhance depth.

Lions Might Include Experienced Veteran

While the Lions are presently in possession of the No. 1 seed in the NFC, they cannot afford to ease up and rest players during the last two weeks of the season. The Lions wrap up the season with a confrontation against the Minnesota Vikings, a match that might determine which team secures a playoff bye and which heads to the wild-card round.

Holder proposed that the Lions might need to acquire a reliable veteran cornerback to assist during the crucial period and the upcoming playoffs.

“At this stage, the team ought to consider any experienced player accessible to provide the secondary with additional choices as they approach the playoffs.” “A few names being mentioned include Patrick Peterson and Xavien Howard,” Holder stated.

Peterson played for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2023 season, starting 16 games and recording 42 total tackles along with 11 passes defensed. The three-time All-Pro and eight-time Pro Bowler played two seasons with the Vikings beforehand, allowing Lions head coach Dan Campbell to closely evaluate his skills.

Lions Evaluating Every Possibility for Defense

The Lions already possess choices within the organization to enhance their secondary. Tim Twentyman from the team’s official website reported that Campbell indicated veteran cornerback Emmanuel Moseley might ascend the depth chart. Moseley has remained a healthy scratch for several weeks now.

Twentyman noted that the Lions might also consider Brian Branch, who possesses the ability to play multiple roles in the secondary.

Campbell mentioned that they will also discuss the possibility of shifting Brian Branch from safety to a cornerback position. As per Campbell, “Twentyman wrote that Amik Robertson could potentially move outside.”

Twentyman mentioned that the Lions might also rely on a player coming back.

“The Lions intend to open the practice window for Ifeatu Melifonwu this week, and perhaps he could be prepared to play on Sunday. However, Campbell mentioned he will need to observe his practice performance before making that decision,” Twentyman reported. “Campbell mentioned they are willing to explore whether Melifonwu can take on various positions in the box upon his return.”

Jeff Risdon from USA Today’s Lions Wire also proposed that the Lions might re-sign an important player from last season’s journey to the NFC Championship.

“Former friend Jerry Jacobs is the most attractive choice available in the free agent market,” Risdon stated. “Jacobs played in 29 games across three seasons in Detroit, with 12 occurring last year.” His coverage performance varied, and he also hasn’t secured a position anywhere despite multiple workouts with various teams—including the Broncos just the week before. Jacobs understands the defensive scheme and offers solid run support on the outside, making him a valuable option for a return to Detroit.