Burning Question: Could Lions Target Cornerback Again in First Round?

As the Detroit Lions approach the 2025 NFL Draft, the question of whether they will target a cornerback in the first round has been burning in the minds of fans and analysts alike. General manager Brad Holmes has established a reputation for evaluating talent meticulously, and with a few gaps still remaining in the secondary, many are wondering if a cornerback will once again be on the Lions’ radar early in the draft. Let’s take a closer look at the possibilities and what factors could lead the Lions to make this decision.

Lions’ Draft Philosophy: Don’t Draft for Need, Draft for Value

The Lions have been clear about their approach to the draft— they are not a team that drafts solely for needs. Under the leadership of Brad Holmes, Detroit has focused on finding the best available talent, regardless of positional requirements. This has been a hallmark of their success, as they have managed to build a competitive team while also allowing for flexibility in addressing needs through free agency, trade, and the draft.

In the secondary, the Lions already made a significant move by adding veteran cornerback D.J. Reed in free agency to replace the departed Carlton Davis. Reed brings stability to the position and allows the team to move forward with a stronger, more experienced defensive backfield. However, with question marks still surrounding players like Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw, could Detroit look to the draft once again to bolster their secondary?

The Case for Adding Another Cornerback

While the Lions’ secondary is relatively young, the NFC North continues to evolve, with wide receivers in the division expected to emerge as serious threats in the coming seasons. The Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears, and Green Bay Packers all have talented wideouts that will challenge the Lions’ defense. This makes adding another defensive back an appealing option for Holmes and the personnel department, even after acquiring Reed.

One potential target that has been gaining momentum in the draft process is Ole Miss cornerback Trey Amos. Standing at 6-foot-1, Amos has impressed scouts with his ability to transition smoothly from the Sun Belt to the SEC, where he showcased his skills in press-man coverage. As a physical corner with the ability to disrupt receivers at the line of scrimmage, Amos could be the type of player the Lions are looking for to help reinforce their defense.

Trey Amos: Rising Draft Prospect

Amos has been steadily climbing draft boards, with analysts noting his length, physicality, and strong performance in coverage. As draft analyst Chad Reuter explains, “Amos uses physicality and length to shrink the 50/50 odds in his favor. He can play in multiple coverage but is most consistent in zone. Amos needs to ramp up his run support and trust his eyes in space, but he has the goods to become a solid starting outside corner.”

While Amos has some areas of development, such as trusting his instincts in space and improving his run support, his athleticism and press-man coverage ability are undeniable. If Detroit targets him in the first round, they would be adding a player with great potential to lock down opposing receivers and add depth to their cornerback group.

The Lions’ Defensive Needs: Will They Prioritize the Trenches Again?

Before the draft, many believe the Lions’ biggest needs lie on the defensive side of the ball, particularly along the defensive line. The team’s pass rush could benefit from an infusion of talent, especially after losing key contributors in recent seasons. Adding depth to the defensive line and linebacker positions may be a priority for new defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, who is working to establish a strong defensive foundation in his first year leading the unit.

However, the Lions should not shy away from adding another defensive back if the right prospect fits their evaluation criteria. Given the increasing importance of cornerbacks in today’s pass-heavy NFL, selecting a cornerback in the first round could prove to be a smart move, especially if the team feels that Amos, or another top prospect, is the best player available.

Amik Robertson: A Potential Nickel Cornerback Option

In addition to Amos, Amik Robertson is also in the mix for playing time in the Lions’ secondary. Though Robertson is expected to take on more of a nickel cornerback role, his ability to contribute on the outside could add flexibility to Detroit’s defense. With Arnold and Rakestraw still developing, Robertson could provide depth and competition at multiple cornerback spots, but it is unlikely that he will be relied upon as the top outside corner for the long term.

Conclusion: A Cornerback or a Defensive Lineman?

While defensive line help remains a top priority for the Detroit Lions, there is a strong case to be made for adding a cornerback in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. With the NFC North growing more competitive in the passing game, the Lions will need to have a secondary that can handle the challenges posed by talented wide receivers. If a prospect like Trey Amos fits what the Lions are looking for, it could make sense to prioritize him, especially given his potential as a future starting outside corner.

Ultimately, whether the Lions go for a cornerback or bolster their defensive line in the first round will depend on how the draft unfolds and which players are available when they pick. Whatever direction they choose, adding depth and talent to the defense will be critical for a team that is eager to build on its success and compete for championships in the years to come.