Detroit Lions Consider Rasul Douglas as Potential Replacement for Carlton Davis

 

As the Detroit Lions prepare for their divisional round matchup against the Washington Commanders, the team faces a significant challenge in their secondary. Cornerback Carlton Davis suffered a fractured jaw in Week 15 against the Buffalo Bills, rendering him unlikely to return for the postseason. With Davis approaching free agency, the Lions are exploring options to bolster their defensive backfield.

 

One name that has emerged as a potential replacement is Buffalo Bills cornerback Rasul Douglas. Douglas, a Super Bowl LV champion, has been recognized for his consistency and on-field presence. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 209 pounds, he offers a blend of size and ball skills that could be valuable to the Lions’ defense.

 

During the regular season, Douglas started 15 games for the Bills, recording 18 defensive stops and five passes defended. However, he faced challenges in coverage, allowing a 74.1% completion rate on 54 targets and a 119.2 passer rating when targeted. Notably, in the Bills’ wild card victory, Douglas held opponents to a 39.6 passer rating when targeted, demonstrating his potential under pressure.

 

While Douglas may not match Davis’s level of play, his experience and veteran presence could offer valuable support to Detroit’s secondary. Considered a cost-effective acquisition, Douglas could serve as a reliable depth option for the Lions, providing stability to the defensive lineup. His addition could bolster the Lions’ defensive capabilities and offer strategic flexibility in upcoming challenges.

 

As the Lions navigate the postseason and look ahead to the future, the potential signing of Rasul Douglas represents a strategic move to address immediate needs and strengthen the team’s defense. The front office will need to weigh Douglas’s experience and potential contributions against the team’s long-term goals and salary cap considerations.