A seasoned Detroit Lions cornerback has emerged as a possible trade candidate for the Carolina Panthers as questions arise about his role in the team’s 2025 plans.
The Lions’ cornerback group has grown significantly this offseason. With Terrion Arnold, Ennis Rakestraw, and Amik Robertson all projected to be in the rotation, the team added even more depth by signing D.J. Reed in free agency to replace Carlton Davis, their top corner in 2024. Detroit didn’t stop there, later bringing in Rock Ya-Sin and Avonte Maddox to further bolster the position.
These moves, along with the anticipated progress of Arnold and Rakestraw, have raised uncertainty about where Robertson fits into the mix. That uncertainty could make him a trade option, and Anthony Rizzuti of Panthers Wire recently identified Robertson as a potential target for Carolina.
Robertson was a reliable rotational defender for the Lions last season. He played 57% of defensive snaps, allowing a 61.4% completion rate and just 7.2 yards per target, while also defending eight passes. Beyond pass coverage, he totaled 50 tackles (including four for loss) and forced three fumbles.
Despite his contributions, Robertson may struggle to have the same impact in 2025. The Lions intend for Rakestraw to play outside and Maddox brings experience in the slot, potentially limiting Robertson’s opportunities. Additionally, his $6.4 million cap hit for 2025 could make him expendable—Detroit would save $4.2 million in cap space if they traded him, per Spotrac.
While moving Robertson may not be a top priority, the combination of his contract, potential cap savings, and limited role could make a trade more attractive if younger players surpass him on the depth chart.