DETROIT – As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Detroit Lions are reportedly considering a surprising move that could reshape their secondary. According to recent analysis, the team may part ways with veteran cornerback Amik Robertson, a key depth piece in their 2024 campaign, to make room for new additions and address other roster needs. The speculation, fueled by Fox Sports writer Ralph Vacchiano, has sparked debate among fans, with some questioning whether trading Robertson is the right call for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
The Lions bolstered their defensive backfield this offseason with the signing of veteran cornerback Avonte Maddox, a move aimed at adding experience after a 2024 season plagued by injuries. Maddox, who started 2024 with the Philadelphia Eagles before joining Detroit, is expected to compete for a key depth role behind slot corner Brian Branch. This addition, however, has raised questions about Robertson’s place on the roster.
Robertson, 26, joined the Lions in free agency last year and proved his versatility, playing both slot and outside cornerchurch roles. He started nine games in 2024, recording 30 tackles, one interception, and limiting opponents to a 59.6% completion rate when targeted. Notably, he shut down Minnesota Vikings star Justin Jefferson in the regular-season finale, holding him to three catches for 54 yards. Despite these contributions, Vacchiano suggests that Robertson’s limited role—especially with emerging talents like Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. in the mix—could make him expendable. “After all the injuries they suffered on defense last season, the Lions might not be interested in trading away anyone from that unit,” Vacchiano wrote, “but Robertson’s trade value could help them address other needs.”
The Lions’ secondary was hit hard by injuries in 2024, with key players like Carlton Davis (fractured jaw) and Aidan Hutchinson (broken leg) sidelined. While this underscored the importance of depth, Robertson’s $6.4 million cap hit in 2025 and the team’s confidence in younger players may prompt a trade. Analysts suggest Detroit could package Robertson with draft picks to move up in the draft, potentially targeting an edge rusher like Georgia’s Mykel Williams or Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart to complement Hutchinson. The Lions hold the No. 28 pick, and a trade could land them a top-15 selection.
The prediction has divided Lions fans. Some, like a vocal user on X, called the idea “utter nonsense,” arguing that Robertson’s late-season performance—particularly his versatility and clutch plays—makes him untouchable. “Amik stepped up big time when Davis went down. Trading him would be a mistake,” they posted. Others, however, see the logic, noting that GM Brad Holmes has a knack for bold moves and could leverage Robertson’s value to fill gaps elsewhere, especially with $46.4 million in projected cap space.
If the Lions trade Robertson, they’d rely on Arnold, Rakestraw, and Branch as their core secondary, with Maddox and reserves like Khalil Dorsey providing depth. Rakestraw, a 2024 second-round pick, remains a wildcard after a rookie season limited by injury, but the team is hopeful he’ll step up in 2025. Meanwhile, Holmes faces pressure to balance youth and experience for a Lions squad coming off a 12-5 season and an NFC North title.
The NFL Draft, set for April 24-26, 2025, will be a critical juncture. Whether Robertson stays or goes, Detroit’s front office is clearly aiming to build on last year’s success and chase that elusive Super Bowl. Fans will be watching closely to see if this bold prediction comes to fruition—or if Robertson remains a Lion ready to prove his worth.
