The Detroit Lions are facing a major defensive challenge heading into Thursday Night Football against the Dallas Cowboys. With cornerback Terrion Arnold officially on injured reserve for the season due to shoulder surgery, and Kerby Joseph likely out for the year, Detroit’s secondary is dangerously thin.

Lions’ Injuries Leave Secondary Vulnerable

Arnold’s absence marks the end of his injury struggles that have affected the Lions’ defense since Week 5 against the Cincinnati Bengals. Now, with Joseph also sidelined, Detroit is left with a significantly weakened secondary just as they prepare to face CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, two of the NFL’s most explosive wide receivers.

A unit once considered a defensive strength is now exposed, with just five games left in the regular season and a critical matchup against the NFC’s rising Cowboys squad.

Who’s Left in the Lions’ Secondary?

Heading into Week 14 at Ford Field, here’s Detroit’s cornerback lineup:

Rock Ya-Sin

D.J. Reed

Khalil Dorsey

In emergency situations, Amik Robertson and Avonte Maddox are also available. At safety, the Lions will rely on:

Brian Branch

Daniel Thomas

Thomas Harper

While Branch has shown solid play after returning from injury and suspension, he doesn’t generate turnovers at the level Joseph has consistently delivered over the last few seasons. As for Reed, he returns just as Arnold’s season ends, marking a disappointing close to Detroit’s 2025 cornerback experiment.

Lions’ Pass Defense Under Pressure

Expecting Arnold- or Joseph-level performances from Harper, Thomas, Maddox, or Robertson is a tall order. Lions’ defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard will need each player to step up in a critical matchup that could be one of Detroit’s last realistic chances for a postseason push.

The Dallas Cowboys have won their last three games and are gaining momentum in a shaky NFC. Much of their offensive success relies on Lamb and Pickens, both of whom excel at generating big plays downfield. After witnessing Detroit’s struggles against Jordan Love on Thanksgiving, it’s difficult to imagine a dramatic improvement in the Lions’ pass coverage in time for Week 14.

Lions’ Playoff Odds on the Line

A win against the Cowboys would boost Detroit’s playoff chances to 45%, keeping their postseason hopes alive. Conversely, a loss would plummet them to 12%, effectively putting them on the brink of elimination.

With a depleted secondary and a high-powered Cowboys passing attack looming, Detroit Lions fans have every reason to be nervous as Week 14 approaches.