Both the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings are expected to explore upgrades at cornerback as the offseason gets underway, potentially putting the two NFC North rivals on a collision course in free agency.

Minnesota is looking for a reliable outside corner to line up opposite Isaiah Rodgers, a move that would allow Byron Murphy Jr. to spend more time in the slot, where he has been most effective. Adding a proven perimeter defender could help stabilize a secondary that leaned heavily on versatility last season.

Detroit, meanwhile, may also be in the market depending on how free agency unfolds. If Amik Robertson departs, the Lions would need to address the slot corner position, and given the injury problems they’ve dealt with at cornerback in recent years, adding depth on the outside remains a priority regardless.

Those needs haven’t gone unnoticed. YardBarker’s Colton Edwards recently projected that both franchises could target Seattle Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen, who is set to hit the open market.

Edwards noted that Woolen could provide an immediate boost to Detroit’s defensive backfield, helping solidify a secondary that has been inconsistent at times. For Minnesota, he pointed out that defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ aggressive approach could play to Woolen’s strengths, particularly his size and effectiveness in press-man coverage, making him a potential difference-maker within the division.

Woolen is projected by Spotrac to command a short-term deal worth just over $8 million for one season. On the field, he continues to deliver strong coverage numbers, allowing completions on just over half of the passes thrown his way last season while limiting opposing quarterbacks to a passer rating in the mid-70s.

Across his four-year career, Woolen has consistently limited production, holding receivers to a completion percentage of 54.2% and a passer rating of 70.6 when targeted.

Man coverage is where Woolen thrives, which on paper aligns more closely with Detroit’s defensive tendencies. According to Sharp Football Analysis, the Lions used man coverage on 32% of defensive snaps in 2025, ranking third in the league, while the Vikings relied on it far less often, at under 16%.

However, Minnesota may offer a more straightforward opportunity for a starting role. Detroit appears set on the outside with Terrion Arnold and Jaylon Reed, and Woolen is not known for playing in the slot. Unless the Lions are willing to reshuffle their cornerback alignment, a deal may be unlikely.

As a result, the Vikings could emerge as the more realistic destination, provided they’re confident Woolen can fully adapt to Flores’ defensive system.