The Detroit Lions could look to free agency to solve their growing concerns in the secondary, especially with uncertainty surrounding the health of Ennis Rakestraw and Terrion Arnold ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

There has been little public information regarding the recovery timelines for both Rakestraw and Arnold after the injuries they suffered last season. While both players are expected to compete for starting roles, their injury history makes them risky options for a defense preparing for a crucial campaign.

As a result, Detroit may turn to the free-agent market for stability at cornerback.

According to Pro Football Sports Network, one realistic target for the Lions is Seattle Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen, who is projected to command a contract worth approximately four years and $62.7 million.

“Detroit’s secondary needs help; no more excuses,” PFN wrote. “Tariq Woolen thrived in press-man and Cover 3 earlier in his career and still graded well in 2025 (81.7 CB Impact Score, No. 27 overall). His length and athleticism make him an ideal addition to a defense in need of reinforcements.”

Lions Could Pursue Riq Woolen in Free Agency

Woolen was previously viewed as a potential trade target for the Lions during the 2025 season, though no deal materialized. With Arnold and Rakestraw facing uncertain recovery paths, signing a proven starter like Woolen would give Detroit immediate reliability in the secondary.

The Seahawks cornerback recorded 12 passes defended in 16 games during the regular season and currently plays a rotational role on an NFC Championship-bound Seattle squad.

Per Spotrac projections, Woolen’s next contract would average around $15 million per season, putting him in the same salary range as D.J. Reed, who was one of Detroit’s biggest free-agent signings prior to the 2025 season.

Adding Woolen would strengthen a Lions defense that may lose cornerback Amik Robertson in free agency while attempting to rebuild depth at the position.

Other Potential Lions Free-Agent Targets

Detroit is also expected to explore re-signing affordable veteran options such as Rock Ya-Sin and Avonte Maddox, both of whom could return on team-friendly contracts. Their presence would allow the Lions to pursue a higher-end option like Woolen without exhausting their budget.

If the Lions are serious about stabilizing their injury-plagued secondary, targeting Riq Woolen could be one of the most impactful moves of their 2026 offseason.