The Detroit Lions could be without one of their key defensive starters during part of their offseason program, as cornerback Terrion Arnold continues recovering from injuries.

While speaking at a charity event, the third-year defensive back explained that he is unsure whether he will be fully cleared in time to participate in the team’s upcoming organized team activities (OTAs) and mandatory veteran minicamp scheduled later this month.

“As far as OTAs and stuff, I don’t know about that,” Arnold said via the Detroit Free Press. “That’s kind of up to them and just where I’m at with my recovery and my treatment and stuff. But as far as training camp and stuff, I know I’m expected to be there.”

Arnold dealt with several injuries during the 2025 season, missing nine total games because of shoulder issues and a concussion. Despite the setbacks, he remains a key part of Detroit’s defensive plans heading into the 2026 season.

The 23-year-old cornerback is expected to start opposite veteran defensive back D. J. Reed in the Lions’ secondary.

Arnold also noted that his recovery has been progressing steadily and that he is becoming more comfortable within the defensive system under new coordinator Kelvin Sheppard.

“Before I got hurt I was getting in my groove, figuring things out. Started playing my best ball and then just dealing with that injury, nagging it,” Arnold said. “So, I’m just excited to see where I’ll be at with not having any injuries and just really looking forward to being out there with my team.”

Prior to the 2026 NFL Draft, Lions general manager Brad Holmes addressed questions about whether Detroit’s defense is close to championship caliber following several offseason moves.

“Yeah. Those are our hopes,” Holmes said. “Look, we’re never going to be satisfied in terms of where we’re at. That’s what me and Dan (Campbell) are always constantly looking at. We’re always evaluating personnel and looking at ways to add and tweak things.

“From a schematic standpoint, that’s more of a Dan question, but we’re always looking to evolve and make the defense better all the time.”

The Lions remain optimistic that Arnold will be fully healthy by training camp, which would allow the young cornerback to play a major role in Detroit’s defense as the team pushes toward a potential championship run.