Few NFL teams have endured more injury problems than the Detroit Lions over the past two seasons. Detroit’s roster was battered in 2024, and though things have improved somewhat in 2025, the cornerback position remains a major concern. D.J. Reed is on injured reserve with a hamstring injury, Terrion Arnold is nursing a shoulder issue, and even the reserves have struggled to stay on the field.

According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Detroit is exploring trade options to bolster its secondary depth ahead of the deadline. With that in mind, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox projects the Lions will swing a deal with the Seattle Seahawks to acquire cornerback Riq Woolen.

Detroit’s need for corner help is as urgent as any in the league after relying almost entirely on backups in Week 7. The Lions, who had a Week 8 bye, also make more sense as trade partners for Seattle than either the Rams or Ravens, given division rivalries. Reports from both ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport suggest Woolen is expected to be available, making him a realistic target for Detroit.

“They’ve been trying to move him for some time,” an anonymous executive told ESPN. “He just doesn’t fit what Mike Macdonald wants to do.” Rapoport added that with Devon Witherspoon back healthy, Woolen’s playing time has decreased, and teams believe he could be dealt before the deadline.

A former Pro Bowler, Woolen has proven himself a capable starting cornerback in the NFL, allowing a 54.5% completion rate and a 71.6 passer rating through 54 career games. By comparison, current starter Amik Robertson has allowed 61.7% completions and a 98.4 passer rating over his career.

Woolen would immediately strengthen Detroit’s boundary coverage while offering valuable depth once Reed and Arnold return. The fact that Woolen is entering the final year of his contract could actually benefit the Lions, who are tight against the salary cap and prefer short-term flexibility. If the cost is around a fourth-round pick, it’s a sensible move that could stabilize the secondary and fortify Detroit’s Super Bowl aspirations.