Don deal. The Washington Commanders agreed to provide the Detroit Lions with their best player.
This 2023 season, the Detroit Lions have been particularly impressive. They are the winners of the NFC North for the first time in thirty years. They obviously have goals higher than a division title, but in order to maintain their dominance in the NFL, they will need to continue to develop in the offseason.
The Lions need to make some adjustments to their defense. Their defense has been mediocre at best this season, despite the fact that they are among the best offensive teams. According to FOX Sports, they rank 15th overall in terms of defense.
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That being said, when the offseason arrives, they should prioritize staying on defense. Luckily for the Lions, cornerback Kendall Fuller of the Washington Commanders is an upcoming free agent who would be a perfect fit for them.
Washington Commanders, Kendall Fuller, and the Detroit Lions
December 17, 2023, Inglewood, California, USA: Cooper Kupp (10) of the Los Angeles Rams, a wide receiver, runs the ball against Kendall Fuller (29) of the Washington Commanders during the first half of the game at SoFi Stadium. Required Credit: USA TODAY Sports/Gary A. Vasquez
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In a recent piece about free agency, Bleacher Report included a list of every NFL team’s possible 2024 targets. Fuller’s versatility and consistency made him a great fit for the Lions, according to some.
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It’s time for the Lions to start searching for possible cornerback replacements, as both Emmanuel Moseley and Jerry Jacobs are scheduled to become free agents.
“Fuller has played exceptionally well over the last three seasons and has been Washington’s top corner for a few years. Pro Football Focus has given him high marks in 2023 as a run defender and in coverage, which makes him a worthwhile addition to the Lions’ secondary. The Bleacher Report article outlined Kendall Fuller’s benefits to the Detroit Lions.
In addition, the eight-year veteran has only made three trips to the postseason, so it’s possible that he would accept a lower contract to play for a Super Bowl contender.
Washington Commanders, Kendall Fuller, and the Detroit Lions
Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA, November 5, 2023 In the second half at Gillette Stadium, Washington Commanders cornerback Kendall Fuller (29) tackles New England Patriots receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (7). Required Credit: USA TODAY Sports/Paul Rutherford
Why should the Detroit Lions pursue Kendall Fuller, the cornerback for the Washington Commanders?
For good reason, Kendall Fuller is regarded as one of the best cornerbacks available during the offseason. He has recorded two interceptions, nine passes defended, and two fumble recoveries in his 15 games played thus far. In addition, he has two tackles for loss and 79 total tackles.
He is ranked as the third-best cornerback that will be available by PFF. In free agency, it is anticipated that he will sign a $40 million, three-year contract.
The Lions already have a solid offense under Jared Goff’s leadership, so strengthening their defense and cornerback play could be the final component needed to turn them into postseason regulars and even Super Bowl contenders.
It’s unclear what the Lions will actually do, but they must stay busy and ensure that they don’t let their opponents catch up as they all attempt to strengthen their rosters.