Breaking news: Lions Close in to Sign Former Super Bowl Safety Champion in a Blockbuster Deal.
It has been argued that the Detroit Lions should add a seasoned safety to round out their roster prior to training camp.
After a diligent summer, the Detroit Lions have assembled their starting 2024 roster before Week 1 and appear more formidable at several positions.
Despite this, the Lions could still need to take care of a few things before the season starts, and some people might think those issues are with the defense. Brad Holmes strengthened the defensive backfield considerably through the draft and free agency, but there may still be a need that needs to be filled.
The defensive backfield was listed as the top roster weakness by Bleacher Report prior to the season. Their resolution? Add Super Bowl champion safety Jalen Mills, who played for the New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, and New York Giants in the past.
“The Lions’ need for a cornerback was well-documented this offseason and while the front office made several additions, it couldn’t hurt to throw one more player into the mix especially while Emmanuel Moseley is on injured reserve.”
“Mills is a versatile player who can cover the boundary or the slot and play safety when necessary, making him an excellent target. That’s a reliable option to use off the bench, and Pro Football Focus reports that he had a 73.5 passer rating when targeted the previous season.
If Ifeatu Melifonwu’s injury is a serious one that could take several weeks to heal, Mills could step in and cover for him.
Before the season begins, Dan Campbell discusses the Detroit Lions’ available roster position.
Since the Lions only have 52 players on their roster, they could theoretically add Mills right away if they so desired. Naturally, it will alter before to the start of the season against the Los Angeles Rams.
Before the season, Dan Campbell was questioned about the choice to leave a roster place vacant.
“I believe the reason is the flexibility. In actuality, it offers us the freedom to change if necessary, or to include someone. I think in the next 24 to 48 hours, we’ll have a pretty strong notion of exactly how and with whom we want to approach this game. That might have some impact on the practice squad, veteran squad, roster, and overall situation. Thus, it only provides us with a small amount of leeway.”
It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Lions take a veteran like Mills into consideration if the defense has a need in the near future.
