The Detroit Lions were pleasantly surprised that cornerback Terrion Arnold was still available at selection No. 24. The outstanding defensive back was expected to be taken before the 20th pick.
General manager Brad Holmes was aggressive, trading up five spots to ensure the former Alabama Crimson Tide cornerback would wear the Lions’ uniform.
Arnold’s athleticism and man-to-man coverage abilities were highlighted in a recent list of NFL rookies who will make an immediate impact in 2024. According to Sports Illustrated, “Arnold could end up being the steal of the draft after falling to No. 24. He will likely win a starting job as an outside corner because of his athleticism and exceptional skills in man-to-man coverage. He will also have plenty of help playing alongside veteran Carlton Davis III and slot cornerb.
“Arnold lacks bulk at 6’0,” 196 pounds, but his polished coverage skills and nose for the ball will most certainly allow him to make an immediate impact,” says Gilberto Manzano. “Don’t be surprised if he quickly gains the respect and trust of his teammates with how impressive he was in team and media interviews during the lead-up to the draft.”
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Valenti: Lions’ Free Agency Plan ‘Arrogant’
Mike Valenti does not regard Carlton Davis as a high-level cornerback.
Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes has begun the offseason by continuing to add to the team’s roster in a savvy and cost-effective manner.
During the first day and a half of the NFL’s authorized tampering period, Holmes re-signed veteran offensive tackle Graham Glasgow and signed two middle-tier free agents (EDGE Marcus Davenport and CB Amik Robertson). On Monday, he also helped facilitate a trade with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to acquire cornerback Carlton Davis III.
Meanwhile, Holmes has passed up the opportunity to sign many top-tier free agents in key areas of need for Detroit (such as EDGE Danielle Hunter and defensive tackle Christian Wilkins).
Holmes has had a lackluster start to the summer, prompting a number of fans and analysts to question the Detroit front-office executive’s free-agent plan.
On Tuesday, 97.1 The Ticket’s on-air personality Mike Valenti went a step further, criticizing Holmes for failing to make a significant move this offseason. Notably, Valenti reacted negatively to people who regard Davis as a “impact corner.”
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