The Detroit Lions defense has been exceptional in 2024, as the unit allowed just 20.1 points per game and 98.4 rushing yards per game during the regular season, both ranking in the top ten in the NFL. Detroit defeated the Minnesota Vikings in Week 18 to capture the NFC North title and the No.1 seed in the conference, which comes with a first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the postseason.
It’s remarkable that the Lions’ defense has been so dominant this season, given the number of injuries the unit has had to overcome. Aaron Glenn’s unit has lost multiple key starters in significant injuries in 2024, including starting cornerback Carlton Davis. The veteran fractured his jaw during the team’s Week 15 matchup versus the Buffalo Bills, and head coach Dan Campbell doesn’t envision Davis returning to the lineup in the playoffs.
The former Tampa Bay Buccaneer was enjoying a solid season before his injury and will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason. If Detroit is unable to retain Davis in free agency, DraftKings Network’s Blake Krass predicts the team will select Ole Miss cornerback Trey Amos in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
“The Lions had the best offense in the NFL this season, so they are likely to target a defensive player in the draft,” Krass wrote. “They were an elite run defense but could use some help in the secondary, meaning Ole Miss cornerback Trey Amos would be a great selection. He was a first-team All-SEC performer this season and could be an immediate difference-maker for the Lions.”
Amos had an excellent 2024 campaign with the Rebels, snagging three interceptions and knocking down 13 passes. The 22-year-old also allowed just a 51.6% completion rate on 62 targets and a 54.5 passer rating when targeted.
Here is more on Amos from The Draft Network’s Keith Sanchez:
Amos possesses the ideal length, physicality, and mental temperament to be a productive cornerback in the NFL. While there are details in his coverage technique that require refinement, he appears best suited for a zone-heavy defensive scheme. With his combination of size and football IQ, Amos has the potential to develop into a reliable NFL cornerback.
If the Lions let Davis walk in free agency this offseason, replacing the 28-year-old with Amos would be a savvy move from general manager Brad Holmes. The senior cornerback would immediately step in as the starter and give Detroit two future cornerstones at the position, as 2024 first-round pick Terrion Arnold has had a promising rookie campaign.
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