Breaking: Lions to Bolster Defense With Breakout Free Agent

The Detroit Lions have been one of the best teams in football this season, as Dan Campbell’s squad is 7-1 and atop the NFC North through eight games. The Lions picked up a critical divisional victory over the Green Bay Packers in Week 9 and will travel to NRG Stadium to face off against Houston Texans on Sunday Night Football in Week 10.

Detroit’s offense garners most of the credit for the team’s success in 2024, but Aaron Glenn’s defense continues to be one of the most underrated units in the NFL, and especially the secondary.

The additions of Carlton Davis and rookie Terrion Arnold have improved the backend, but the Lions still need to invest more resources into the cornerback position moving forward.

With Detroit likely in the market for a cornerback this offseason, Bleacher Report’s Scouting Department predicts the Lions will sign Los Angeles Chargers veteran Kristian Fulton in 2025 free agency to bolster the secondary.

“It’s no secret that Detroit could use some help at cornerback. While Terrion Arnold has plenty of potential, he’s stumbled out of the gates to begin his career. Also, Carlton Davis and Emmanuel Moseley are impending free agents.”

“So, the front office should explore the open market for the position this spring, and Fulton will be an intriguing option as he’s revived his career in Los Angeles.”

After a rough end to an up-and-down tenure with the Tennessee Titans, Fulton has been excellent for the Chargers in 2024. The 2020 second-round pick has allowed just a 56.3% completion rate and a 68.8 passer rating when targeted this season, and also boasts a 79.1 coverage grade.

Fulton signed a one-year deal with Los Angeles on March 22nd, betting on himself to resurrect his career and receive a big payday in 2025. The former LSU standout’s gamble has paid off thus far, so Fulton won’t come for cheap.

If the Lions end up losing Davis in free agency and don’t feel set with Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Fulton would be a nice addition to Detroit’s secondary. The 26-year-old has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play in his five-year career, but he is turning it around and is a solid starting corner.