As Detroit Lions CB Carlton Davis approaches free agency, the Lions will face stiff competition for his services, assuming they are interested in bringing him back. The decision on whether to re-sign Davis will largely depend on his asking price and the Lions’ confidence in their current roster.
If Davis doesn’t return, there are options available, and one potential target for the Lions is Buffalo Bills cornerback Rasul Douglas. Douglas has proven himself as a capable playmaker over his career, with multiple interceptions in five seasons and a consistent ability to defend passes and rack up tackles. According to TWSN’s Alex Frank, Douglas would be a solid fit for the Lions, pairing with Brian Branch to solidify the secondary.
Rasul Douglas: Upgrade or Insurance Policy?
While Douglas would undoubtedly provide much-needed depth and experience to the Lions’ secondary, the question remains whether he would be a sufficient replacement for Davis, especially considering his lower coverage numbers in 2024. Nonetheless, Douglas offers solid value and a proven track record, including experience in the slot, although he excels more on the boundary.
My best guess is that Douglas would cost the Lions around between 11-12 million annually. With $46.4 million in cap space, the Lions could afford this deal, but it remains to be seen whether they would allocate such a significant portion of their resources to a cornerback who may not start in Detroit.
Ultimately, the Lions’ decision on Davis, Rasul Douglas, and their overall secondary plans will be a key factor in their pursuit of a Super Bowl in 2025. The team’s confidence in second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr., and his development, will also play a critical role in how they approach free agency and build out their cornerback depth moving forward.
