Following a disappointing season-ending loss to the Washington Commanders in the divisional round, the Detroit Lions are shifting their focus to the 2025 offseason. A major challenge lies ahead as the team faces decisions regarding 33 pending free agents, 23 of whom are unrestricted. Among the notable names on this list is cornerback Carlton Davis, a key player who joined the Lions during the 2024 offseason after leaving the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Carlton Davis: A Season of Highs and Lows
In his first season with Detroit, Davis delivered an impressive performance on the field. He allowed a completion rate of just 55.3% and a passer rating of 77.0 when targeted, both of which rank among the best of his career. However, Davis’s time with the Lions was once again hampered by injuries. A fractured jaw sidelined him during the season, continuing his trend of missing significant time due to health issues.
As a 2018 second-round pick, Davis is now entering free agency and is expected to seek a substantial contract. According to projections from Spotrac, he could command an annual salary of $13.8 million on the open market. While the Lions have $69.7 million in cap space heading into the offseason, they may be hesitant to make a long-term financial commitment to a nearly 30-year-old cornerback with a history of injuries.
### Detroit’s Depth at Cornerback
Another factor influencing Davis’s future with the team is the Lions’ current cornerback depth. Detroit has a mix of reliable veterans and emerging talent already under contract. Rookie Ennis Rakestraw Jr., in particular, was viewed as a potential successor to Davis. However, Rakestraw’s own rookie campaign was plagued by injuries, leaving his potential largely unproven. This uncertainty could push the Lions to seek additional veteran leadership in their secondary.
The team’s strategy may include evaluating other options in free agency or considering a contract for Davis that aligns more closely with their financial priorities. If Davis’s contract demands exceed what the Lions are willing to offer, they could allow him to test the open market.
### Financial and Strategic Considerations
Devon Platana of *Detroit Jock City* highlighted the balancing act Detroit faces: “If Davis demands too much money, the Lions won’t hesitate to let him walk. There’s already a mixture of reliable and up-and-coming CBs under contract, meaning Detroit can afford to lose him.”
The Lions are in a favorable financial position but will need to weigh the long-term risks of investing heavily in a player like Davis, who has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career. With the development of younger players still uncertain, Detroit’s front office might opt for a more conservative approach, possibly targeting other free-agent cornerbacks or drafting a new prospect to strengthen their secondary.
### The Road Ahead
As Detroit enters the 2025 offseason, the decision regarding Carlton Davis will be a key storyline. Whether Davis remains with the team or moves on, his situation will be a critical part of how the Lions plan to address their roster needs. Their ultimate goal is to build on the success of their historic 15-2 season and push deeper into the playoffs next year. The moves they make in free agency, particularly in their secondary, will shape the team’s ability to remain competitive and bounce back stronger in 2025.
Leave a Reply