The Detroit Lions are in an intriguing position on defense as the NFL gears up for free agency.
They boast some standout talent, including two of the league’s top safeties and an edge rusher favored to win Defensive Player of the Year next season.
This talent is the result of the team’s focused investment in strengthening their defense.
However, that investment hasn’t fully paid off at one key position.
The cornerback spot has been a challenge, despite trading for Carlton Davis and drafting two corners last year.
Now, with Davis heading to free agency and their young corners still unproven, the position remains a concern.
Given these struggles, the Lions are expected to explore free agent options and might target a player with Super Bowl experience.
In a prediction piece by USA Today’s Jacob Camenker, he suggested the Lions could pursue 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward.
Ward isn’t just coming off a subpar year—it was his worst season since his rookie campaign.
He allowed a 61.5% completion rate and 7.5 yards per target, his poorest numbers since 2018.
Yet, this may not stop the Lions from considering him.
While much offseason chatter has focused on adding another edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, cornerback should arguably be the priority.
There’s plenty of edge talent available through free agency, the draft, and possible trades.
Cornerback, however, is a much thinner market.
Few free agents could fill a CB1 role, and draft options may be limited by the Lions’ first-round pick.
Though Ward carries concerns after his rough 2024 season, he remains in his prime and has shown high-level play before.
The Lions should strongly consider pursuing Ward to solidify their secondary and bring more stability to the position in 2025.