At some point, every NFL team has to own up to a free-agency mistake, and the Detroit Lions may be reaching that point with cornerback Amik Robertson. Head coach Dan Campbell might soon have no choice but to pivot away from the veteran defensive back, who has struggled to meet expectations in his first season with the team.

Detroit brought Robertson in on a two-year, $9.25 million contract during the 2024 offseason — a move that looked like a bargain at the time, especially given his track record as a slot corner. But the Lions have expanded his responsibilities, and the added workload hasn’t brought the results they hoped for.

Robertson’s worst outing came during the Lions’ disastrous Thanksgiving loss to the Packers, when Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love carved up the defense for four passing touchdowns. Robertson’s rough afternoon was so discouraging he declined to speak with reporters afterward.

Campbell and the Lions may have to concede that this signing hasn’t worked out. According to Pro Football Reference, Robertson has already surrendered a career-high five touchdowns this season, and he has given up more air yards (398) than in any previous year. And the season is far from over.

The road ahead won’t make things easier. Detroit’s next two opponents — the Cowboys and the Rams — feature two of the strongest wide-receiver tandems in the league. With injuries thinning Detroit’s secondary, Robertson has logged more snaps than any other Lions corner, but opponents have increasingly attacked him on deeper routes.

With the postseason race tightening, Detroit can’t afford continued breakdowns in coverage. Campbell may soon be forced to try another option, even if the depth chart is thin.

Robertson voiced frustration on social media after a long touchdown by Christian Watson, suggesting he was pushed off on the play and calling out Watson — and other receivers — online. His competitiveness and grit aren’t in question, especially in the slot, but the Lions have been asking him to do more than he can realistically handle. Unless something changes quickly, Detroit will have to reconsider his role before it costs them even more.