2015 Detroit Lions Roster Analysis: Cornerback
By Kent Platte
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Outside of the starters, the Lions have built themselves some solid depth in the past year. Depth was a huge concern in 2014 as the team watched one defensive back after another go down early and it was a miracle Slay and Mathis remained healthy. Despite the poor depth, the team saw success in their secondary due to their starters all being above average to great.
It isn’t often you see a 3rd round pick in the “Other” category, but aside from injury there isn’t a scenario where Carter starts any higher than 4th CB on the Detroit Lions roster. With ties to both Martin Mayhew and Rashean Mathis, Carter has plenty of familiarity with the team and it will hopefully aid in his development to take over for Mathis or even James Ihedigbo if he moves to safety in 2016.
Chris Owens
Another questionable carryover, this time from the Chiefs, Chris Owens is tiny even by diminutive CB standards. Despite that odd fit, he was taking early team reps during OTAs and it’s worth watching if he can take the dreaded Cassius Vaughn role in the Lions defense.
The former Clemson standout has gained the “well traveled” image having played for six different teams in five years. His size and length are notable at 6’1″, 191 lbs, but as we saw from players like Chris Greenwood you have to do more than just look like an NFL cornerback.
Seisay wasn’t even a starter at Nebraska, but was able to show some development in his short time in action for the Lions in 2014. That isn’t to say he was good, he wasn’t, but he was a lot more promising than many thought he would be and if he continues that development he has a decent shot at making the roster again.