This article is a compilation of various analysts’ thoughts and evaluations on the Detroit Lions’ actions during the first day of the NFL’s legal tampering period. It primarily discusses the Lions’ trade for cornerback Carlton Davis III from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, analyzing the potential impact of this move on Detroit’s defense.
Grade for the Athletic’s Trade Evaluation: B
The trade received a grade of B, which seems to be a consensus view among commentators. According to a tweet from the writer, the outcome of this deal hinges on one key factor: Davis’ availability. If he can remain healthy, this trade will be a smart move for the Lions as they aim to challenge for the NFC title. The success of the trade will largely depend on Davis being able to stay injury-free and potentially match his career-high of 14 starts in a season. If Davis can stay on the field and deliver strong performances, this could be a game-changer for Detroit’s defense.
Grade from CBS Sports: B+
CBS Sports also awarded the trade a solid grade of B+, highlighting the necessity of improving the cornerback position for the Lions. After a season in which the Lions struggled with their defensive backfield, they needed to add more talent at the cornerback position, and the trade for Davis addresses this. The previous season saw limited success with their aggressive approach to the cornerback spot, including the signing of Cam Sutton and the acquisition of Emmanuel Moseley. Moseley, who was returning from a torn ACL, played only two snaps before suffering another ACL injury, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. Sutton, meanwhile, gave up five touchdowns in coverage and posted an 80.4 passer rating against him, signaling a need for further reinforcement in the secondary.
Now, the Lions are pairing Sutton with Davis, who is entering the final year of his contract. Davis brings experience and talent, though he is coming off two injury-plagued seasons. The Lions are hopeful that he can rebound in 2024 and help bolster their secondary, which was among the worst in the league last year. Detroit’s pass defense allowed 28 touchdowns, ranking 28th in the NFL, and gave up 7.8 yards per attempt, which was the second-worst in the league. The addition of Davis provides a significant upgrade and the potential to improve a defense that was sorely lacking in key areas.
The Need for Improvement on Defense
The Lions made it to the NFC Championship Game in 2023, but despite their offensive success, their defense remained a weak point. With a secondary that struggled to cover opponents effectively, it was clear that Detroit needed to invest in improvements on that side of the ball. This trade for Davis is part of that effort to strengthen the defense.
Davis, a cornerback who is set to earn $14.5 million in the final year of his contract, was an attractive target for the Lions. The Bucs signed him to a three-year, $44.5 million deal in 2022, and while Davis has had his share of injury issues, he has shown the potential to be a top-tier corner when healthy. The hope is that after two tough seasons, he will be able to contribute at a high level and become a key piece in Detroit’s defensive puzzle.
The Trade and Its Implications for the Lions’ Secondary
The Lions’ secondary has been a point of concern for some time, and the addition of Davis addresses one of the most pressing needs for the team. In 2023, Detroit added cornerbacks Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley, but their efforts were less than successful. Sutton, while solid, gave up numerous big plays and struggled at times in coverage. Moseley, on the other hand, was unable to stay healthy, further complicating the Lions’ defensive plans.
With Davis on board, the Lions now have a player with the potential to make a significant impact. Davis has been a reliable starter in Tampa Bay, and while he hasn’t always been consistent, his presence should help shore up a defense that allowed too many big plays in 2023. The Lions’ coaching staff, led by defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, is counting on Davis to step in and provide stability to a secondary that needs help. His experience in the NFL, combined with his physical attributes, makes him a valuable asset for Detroit as they look to improve their defense.
Detroit’s Long-Term Vision and the Importance of the Move
The Lions are not simply making moves for the short term—they are building a team capable of competing at a high level for years to come. Adding Davis, even if it’s just for a single season, is part of that vision. The team is focused on improving its defense and, more specifically, its secondary. The hope is that Davis can be a stabilizing force for a unit that has been inconsistent and prone to giving up big plays.
Beyond the immediate impact of Davis’ performance on the field, this trade also sends a message that the Lions are serious about becoming contenders in the NFC. The front office and coaching staff are willing to make bold moves to address weaknesses and improve the team. While Davis’ health and performance are key to the success of this trade, the Lions are in a position where they cannot afford to stand still. The trade for Davis, combined with the continued development of their young players, puts Detroit in a strong position moving forward.
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions’ trade for Carlton Davis III has the potential to significantly improve their defense, specifically their secondary. While the trade is a calculated risk due to Davis’ injury history, it could pay off if he remains healthy and plays at a high level. The Lions’ defense was a weak point in 2023, and this move shows the team’s commitment to addressing that issue. If Davis stays on the field and performs as expected, this could be a game-changing acquisition that helps the Lions challenge for the NFC title. The trade marks a crucial step in Detroit’s efforts to build a more balanced, competitive team and should have a lasting impact on their defensive unit in the coming seasons.
