The Detroit Lions have a few pivotal players set to hit free agency this offseason, but none more important than cornerback Carlton Davis. The veteran started 13 games for Detroit in 2024 and provided adequate play as the team’s No.1 cornerback before breaking his jaw in Week 15.
Davis will draw interest from many clubs, and if the Lions lose the Super Bowl LV champion, Sports Illustrated’s Christian Booher believes general manager Brad Holmes should sign New England Patriots cornerback Jonathan Jones.
“If the Lions don’t bring back Carlton Davis, they stand to be very young at the cornerback position. As a result, an experienced veteran like Jones could make perfect sense. He’s been a part of two Super Bowl championship teams in New England, and could offer valuable veteran leadership for young players like Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw,” Booher wrote.
“Jones struggled in 2024. However, he is expected to be affordable and would serve as competition for the Lions’ young players at the position. Signing him could be a low-risk, low-cost move that winds up helping players like Arnold and Rakestraw,” Booher added.
Jones started 14 games for the Patriots in 2024 and struggled in coverage, allowing a 75.5% completion rate on 53 targets and a 146.6 passer rating when targeted.
Though the 31-year-old isn’t a reliable starting cornerback, Jones has a ton of playoff experience and is a savvy veteran who would provide valuable depth for Kelvin Sheppard’s defense. Additionally, the former Auburn standout will be cheap to sign, as Spotrac and Pro Football Focus believe Jones will land a contract worth around $3 million in free agency.
Losing Davis in free agency wouldn’t be ideal, but it is a scenario that has a high chance of transpiring. Though Jonathan Jones wouldn’t be a sufficient replacement, the two-time Super Bowl champion would be a solid addition to the position group and could step in as a starter if needed.
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