Detroit Lions: Defense will almost be unrecognizable in 2019

Secondary

The secondary was put on the pedestal as the group who would carry the defense. Not only did they fall off that pedestal, but they were also handed a real dose of reality. The secondary has severely underperformed to a point where they will have a whole new look coming into next year.

Let’s start with the cornerbacks. Darius Slay and Jamal Agnew probably aren’t going anywhere. Nevin Lawson was brought back on a two-year deal this past year, but his performance this season does not warrant the $5.72 million cap hit he has next year. DeShawn Shead was signed in the offseason, released and signed again, so his status is up in the air, but he is probably gone as well.

The hardest hit will probably be Teez Tabor. Tabor has not performed to the level everyone has hoped for in the former second-round pick. He is considered the worst cornerback in the league by most standards. The Lions might keep him on since he is on a rookie deal, but don’t be surprised if he gets let go. Bob Quinn is not afraid to admit his mistakes and this is one that he needs to bite the bullet on.

Onto the second half of the secondary, the safeties. Quandre Diggs is staying put after the new deal he signed and adds value with his versatility. The biggest let down this season has to be Glover Quin. Looks like father time has caught up with him and has lost a step. I think the Lions will cut bait and allow Tracy Walker to take over. Especially since Quin has really contemplated retirement this past year.

Tavon Wilson is consistently injured and at 28 years of age, the Lions might go in another direction. Miles Killebrew and Charles Washington might return, but they have been regulated to special team duties all year. Their status is also in question. Overall in the secondary, at most, we might see three players from this year guaranteed a job for next year. Expect a whole different look to the secondary next year.