The Detroit Lions were missing starting safety Ifeatu Melifonwu in their season opener on September 8. Instead of signing another safety as a precaution, the Bleacher Report NFL scouting department recommended that the Lions prioritize adding cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon.
On September 9, Bleacher Report highlighted Witherspoon as the ideal addition for the Lions, noting that cornerback has been a weak spot for the team since last season. Despite the Lions’ efforts to address the position, Emmanuel Moseley’s placement on injured reserve has left a gap in the roster. Witherspoon, who had a career-high 14 passes defended for the Rams last season, could be a significant boost for the Lions’ secondary.
In the previous season with the Los Angeles Rams, Witherspoon recorded 52 combined tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 14 pass defenses, 2 interceptions, and 2 fumble recoveries. His impressive statistics from 2023 followed a season where he had 1,115 defensive snaps and 692 coverage snaps, a substantial increase from his 2022 figures.
Despite having a lower tackle grade of 36 out of 100 and an average Pro Football Focus grade, Witherspoon’s experience and recent performance could make him a valuable asset. Over his seven-year NFL career, he’s played for the San Francisco 49ers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Rams, with last season being his best.
The Lions’ current cornerback situation includes Carlton Davis, acquired through a trade, and rookie Terrion Arnold, drafted in the first round. Arnold had a mixed debut in Week 1, with notable issues including two pass interference penalties. Despite this, Lions head coach Dan Campbell remains optimistic about Arnold’s potential.
Witherspoon may not immediately start but could provide crucial depth, particularly with Brian Branch splitting time between safety and cornerback while Melifonwu is out.
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