The Indianapolis Colts and Detroit Lions are seeking cornerback help ahead of the NFL trade deadline on November 4. Both teams have been impacted by injuries to their cornerbacks, leading to a need for reinforcements in the secondary.

Colts’ Cornerback Issues

The Colts have been dealing with injuries to their cornerbacks, including the loss of third-round rookie Justin Walley to a season-ending ACL tear in August. Xavien Howard, who was signed to bolster the secondary, hasn’t performed well, and Jaylon Jones is on injured reserve with a hamstring injury. Charvarius Ward, the team’s No. 1 cornerback, suffered a concussion and has been ruled out for the next few weeks ¹.

Lions’ Cornerback Issues

The Lions have also been impacted by injuries to their cornerbacks, including D.J. Reed, who went on injured reserve with a hamstring injury on October 1. Terrion Arnold, a first-round rookie, was downgraded to out for Sunday’s game against the Colts due to a groin injury. The Lions are looking to add depth to their secondary, with Kindle Vildor likely to start in Arnold’s place ² ¹.

Potential Targets

Some potential targets for the Colts and Lions include ³ ¹:

– Alontae Taylor: The Seahawks’ cornerback has been rumored to be available for trade.

– Riq Woolen: Another Seahawks cornerback who could be a fit for the Colts or Lions.

– Cam Taylor-Britt: The Bengals’ cornerback has been benched recently and could be available for trade. Reuniting him with Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo could be a good fit.

– Carlton Davis III: The Lions’ own veteran cornerback is a potential target for the Colts in free agency next year.

Trade Deadline Strategy

The Colts and Lions are expected to be buyers ahead of the trade deadline, with both teams looking to bolster their defenses. The Colts are reportedly looking for a “proven defensive playmaker” to add to their secondary. General manager Chris Ballard is said to be aggressive in pursuing talent ¹ ⁴.

With the NFL trade deadline approaching, it will be interesting to see how the Colts and Lions address their cornerback needs. Will they make a big splash or opt for more measured moves? Only time will tell.