Assessing Lions’ Acquisition of Cornerback Carlton Davis
The Motor City is set to receive cornerback reinforcement with the addition of Carlton Davis III, courtesy of Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes. The veteran defensive back was acquired in a trade with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday.
In exchange for Davis, the Lions will surrender their second of two third-round picks in the upcoming April draft (No. 92 overall) but gain two sixth-round picks in 2024 and 2025.
Davis, originally a second-round pick for the Buccaneers in 2018, spent his first six NFL seasons with the team, accumulating nine interceptions and 73 passes defensed in 76 games. Notably, his standout year was in 2020, boasting 68 total tackles, four interceptions, and 18 passes defensed.
Despite a solid career, Davis is better suited as a team’s No. 2 cornerback rather than a primary option. His proficiency in man coverage was evident last season, allowing no touchdowns and holding a 75.1 passer rating when targeted, according to Pro Football Focus. Over the past five seasons, he ranks second in passes defensed in the NFL with 69.
While this move addresses cornerback needs for the Lions, it is likely not their sole effort in upgrading the position. Speculation suggests the Lions may pursue a top-tier cornerback in free agency, such as Stephon Gilmore from the Dallas Cowboys.
Although Davis lacks No. 1 cornerback capabilities, he is expected to be a valuable asset to Detroit’s secondary in 2024. Presently, the trade receives a “B+” grade for the Lions, with potential for further cornerback enhancements in the future.
