The Detroit Lions are heading into the final five weeks of the regular season with major defensive concerns, and losing starting cornerback Terrion Arnold has only made things worse. As Detroit fights to stay alive in the NFC playoff race, their defense has slipped at the worst possible time—allowing 58 points and 876 total yards over the last two games. Now, with Arnold placed on injured reserve, the Lions’ secondary needs immediate help.

A potential solution just hit the market: veteran cornerback Darius Slay, recently released by the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Why the Lions Should Target Darius Slay After Terrion Arnold’s Injury

According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Pittsburgh cut Slay to make room for Asante Samuel Jr. Despite his release, Slay reportedly intends to continue playing, per Ian Rapoport. The 34-year-old must clear waivers first, but if he becomes available, Detroit should strongly consider a reunion.

Slay is no longer the All-Pro shutdown corner he was during his seven-year run in Detroit, but he remains a capable and experienced option. In nine starts with the Steelers this season, he earned a 58.3 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus—a number that, despite being below his peak, still surpasses Terrion Arnold’s PFF grades in each of his two NFL seasons.

Even though Slay’s first Lions tenure ended on rocky terms due to conflicts with former coach Matt Patricia, the franchise is in a completely different era. With Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes now leading the organization, there’s no remaining friction standing in the way of a potential comeback.

Detroit’s Cornerback Depth Is Running Thin

With Arnold sidelined, Detroit is relying on:

DJ Reed

Amik Robertson

Rock Ya-Sin

Backups Avonte Maddox and Khalil Dorsey can contribute, but the group lacks the veteran presence and consistency needed for a playoff push. Slay’s familiarity with Detroit and his extensive experience would instantly raise the secondary’s floor.

Why a Slay–Lions Reunion Makes Sense

Slay offers reliable veteran play late in the season

He fills a critical depth hole created by Arnold’s injury

He understands Detroit’s culture and expectations

Few available cornerbacks are more accomplished or playoff-tested

As the Lions try to stabilize their defense and remain in the postseason hunt, adding Darius Slay could be the most impactful move they can make.