This 2023 season, the Detroit Lions have been very impressive. They are the winners of the NFC North for the first time in thirty years. They obviously have goals higher than a division victory, but in order to maintain their domination in the NFL, they will need to continue to develop in the summer.
The Lions need to make some adjustments in the defense. Their defense has been mediocre at best this season, despite the fact that they are among the best offensive teams. According to FOX Sports, they rank 15th overall in terms of defense.
That being said, when the offseason arrives, they should prioritize staying on defense. Luckily for the Lions, cornerback Kendall Fuller of the Washington Commanders is an incoming free agent who would be a perfect fit for them.
In a recent piece about free agency, Bleacher Report included a list of every NFL team’s possible 2024 target. Fuller’s versatility and consistency made him a great fit for the Lions, according to some.
With both cornerbacks Emmanuel Moseley and Jerry Jacobs set to be free agents as well, it is high time for the Lions to look for potential replacements.
“Fuller has been the top corner in Washington for a few years now and has played very well over the last three seasons. In 2023, he has earned good grades from Pro Football Focus as a run defender and in coverage, making him a good potential addition to the Lions’ secondary,” the Bleacher Report article explained on why Kendall Fuller makes sense for the Detroit Lions.
“Plus, the eight-year pro has only been to the playoffs three times in his career, so he might be willing to take a cheaper deal to play for a Super Bowl contender.”
Kendall Fuller tallied is one of the top cornerbacks that will hit the open market in the offseason, and for good reason. In the 15 games he has played so far, he has tallied two interceptions, nine passes defended and two fumble recoveries. He also boasts 79 combined tackles and two tackles for loss.
According to PFF, he is the third-best cornerback that will be available. He is projected to get a three-year, $40 million contract in free agency.
With the Lions already having a well-established offense led by Jared Goff, improved defense and cornerback play could be the missing piece for them to become postseason mainstays and, potentially, Super Bowl contenders.
It remains to be seen what the Lions will actually do, but they really have to be active and make sure they don’t fall behind when their rivals all try to bolster their respective rosters.
