The Detroit Lions’ secondary could use some reinforcements, but a trusted team reporter has downplayed the idea of a fan-favorite addition coming to Detroit before season’s end.

While the Lions’ defense hasn’t been ravaged by injuries like last year, the secondary continues to deal with significant setbacks. Cornerback D.J. Reed, sidelined by a hamstring injury and currently on injured reserve, isn’t expected back until early December. Safety Kerby Joseph has been out for three consecutive games with a knee issue that had been bothering him for weeks prior. Meanwhile, rookie corner Terrion Arnold seems to pick up a new ailment nearly every game, and a concussion sustained in Week 10 now jeopardizes his availability for Week 11.

Despite those injuries, Detroit stayed quiet at the trade deadline, making zero moves. With the window closed, the team’s only realistic options are remaining free agents who could provide depth in the defensive backfield.

Talk of Asante Samuel Jr. Joining Detroit Cooled by Local Reporter

One name that had fans buzzing was veteran cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. The former Los Angeles Charger missed nearly all of last season due to a neck injury, playing in just four games before undergoing offseason spinal fusion surgery. Now medically cleared, Samuel has started meeting with teams as he looks for his next landing spot.

Reportedly, two of Detroit’s NFC North rivals — the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings — were among the first teams scheduled to host him, and he was also set to meet with the Chicago Bears this Tuesday. Samuel’s itinerary reportedly included daily visits stretching from the previous Wednesday through this Wednesday, suggesting both his own diligence and the teams’ desire for thorough medical evaluations.

Given the Lions’ need for help in the secondary, many fans have wondered why general manager Brad Holmes hasn’t at least brought Samuel in for a visit. However, Mike Payton of AtoZ Sports reported Tuesday that Detroit has shown no interest in signing Samuel at this time.

Although circumstances could shift quickly, the Lions’ absence from Samuel’s list of visits likely has a straightforward reason: they simply aren’t intrigued enough to pursue him. Whether that proves to be the right call remains to be seen, but Payton’s report appears to confirm that Detroit’s front office is content standing pat for now.