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Detroit Lions 2018 Roster Review: Defensive Secondary

By Steven Mullenax

DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 29: Cornerback Darius Slay #23 of the Detroit Lions breaks up a pass intended for wide receiver Justin Hunter #11 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half at Ford Field on October 29, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 29: Cornerback Darius Slay #23 of the Detroit Lions breaks up a pass intended for wide receiver Justin Hunter #11 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half at Ford Field on October 29, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /
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The Detroit Lions secondary was a takeaway machine in 2017. Under a new coaching regime, can this defensive unit climb to new heights this upcoming season?

The Detroit Lions secondary figures to be one of the more talented in the NFL. Last season, this group registered an impressive 32 takeaways, 19 of which were interceptions. Unfortunately, they also allowed 243 passing yards a game, making them the 27th worst passing defense in the league.

But with a new coaching regime coming this offseason, will this defensive secondary be able to improve? They certainly have the personnel to do so. Let’s take a look at the current roster.

Defensive Secondary

Roster

Darius Slay, CB
Teez Tabor, CB
Jamal Agnew, CB
Adairius Barnes, CB
Desmond Lawrence, CB
Glover Quin, S
Charles Washington, S
Stefan McClure, S
Quandre Diggs, S
Miles Killebrew, S
Rolan Milligan, S

Free Agents

Tavon Wilson, S
D.J. Hayden, CB
Nevin Lawson, CB
Don Carey, S

Analysis

When you are talking about the Lions’ defensive secondary, two names instantly come to mind. They are cornerback Darius Slay and safety Glover Quin. Nominated to his first Pro Bowl this season, Slay’s play was finally recognized by the league. And all he had to do is be tied for the lead in interceptions this season with 8 picks.

Many believe Glover Quin should have joined Slay at the Pro Bowl over the weekend. The veteran safety continues to get better with age as the 32-year old was arguably the defensive MVP for this unit last season.

Next: Lions 2018 draft - 4 first round defensive prospects

Question marks still surround the future of 2017 second round selection Teez Tabor. The Lions were committed to bringing Tabor along slowly last season. But the new coaching regime may not be as patient. With Matt Patricia now calling the shots in Detroit, this defensive secondary could see a lot of changes in the coming weeks. But the Lions certainly have enough talent for him to work with.

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