The Detroit Lions are expected to prioritize upgrading their cornerback room during the 2026 NFL offseason, and one projection links them to a high-profile free agent from the Seattle Seahawks.
According to Pro Football and Sports Network’s Ryan Guthrie, Seattle cornerback Riq Woolen is a potential free-agent target for Detroit. Woolen is projected by Spotrac to command a four-year, $62.7 million contract on the open market.
Detroit’s need at cornerback is twofold. The Lions not only lack reliable depth, but they also face uncertainty in the slot, with Amik Robertson set to hit free agency. Injuries further exposed the position in 2025, as rookie Terrion Arnold appeared in just eight games.
“Detroit’s secondary needs help; no more excuses,” Guthrie 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.”
Woolen has reportedly fallen out of favor in Seattle, increasing the likelihood that the Seahawks allow him to walk in free agency. If that happens, the former Pro Bowl cornerback is expected to draw significant league-wide interest.
Over four NFL seasons, Woolen has allowed a 54.2% completion rate and a 70.6 passer rating when targeted, both strong indicators of starting-caliber production.
However, the fit with Detroit is questionable.
Woolen has limited experience as a slot cornerback, logging just 107 snaps inside during his career. That presents an issue for the Lions, who already have their boundary spots locked down with Terrion Arnold and D.J. Reed.
Unless Detroit plans to move one of those players into the slot, investing top-tier money in Woolen may not make sense. At his projected price tag, the Lions would likely pass.
That said, if Woolen’s market value drops significantly, Detroit could consider him as experienced depth. More realistically, the Lions are expected to pursue cheaper outside depth while either re-signing Amik Robertson or targeting a defensive back with proven slot experience.
