The veteran defender’s position became overcrowded this offseason, prompting the Lions to be urged to trade him

The Detroit Lions should contemplate trading a veteran defender whose position became extremely crowded this offseason.

This offseason, the Detroit Lions have added a few new cornerbacks to their roster.

After a season in which their roster was put to the test, they signed D.J. Reed to join their starting lineup and subsequently added Rock Ya-Sin and Avonte Maddox as depth.

The potential for a second-year player to assume a more significant role at the position, in conjunction with the aforementioned additions, could render a veteran cornerback a trade candidate this offseason.

Cornerback Amik Robertson of the Detroit Lions executes a takedown. Junfu Han/USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images

Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report recently identified cornerback Amik Robertson as the player that the Lions should consider trading in a recent article that identified one player that each NFL team should consider trading this offseason.

For the Lions in 2024, Robertson served as an effective third option. He was able to limit the completion rate of opposing quarterbacks to 61.4% when they threw in his direction, and he only allowed 7.2 yards per target.

He was also a formidable tackler, as evidenced by his 50 total tackles, three forced fumbles, and 23 stops, as reported by Pro Football Focus.

Robertson’s performance in 2024 demonstrated that he has the potential to maintain his status as a reliable third corner in 2025; however, he faces a significant challenge.

The potential emergence of Ennis Rakestraw Jr. is the obstacle.

After the Lions selected him in the second round, Rakestraw only played 46 snaps last season. The Lions anticipate that he will assume a significant portion of Robertson’s responsibilities this offseason, potentially rendering him expendable.

The Lions could conceivably allocate $4.25 million in cap space to sign an edge rusher or strengthen the interior of their offensive line if they were to trade Robertson.

The Lions should pursue trading Robertson, as there are teams that may be interested in him. If he falls behind Rakestraw on the depth chart, his role in 2025 will be significantly diminished.

Detroit Lions in a state of gathering