The Detroit Lions used the offseason to reshuffle the roster after missing on the playoffs in 2025. After letting Amik Robertson walk in free agency, the Lions decided to retain Rock Ya-Sin before signing Roger McCreary to a one-year, $1.402 million deal.
While it appears that McCreary will get a shot at starting in the slot, the latest release may have gifted Detroit a chance to add a proven veteran. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Thursday that the Indianapolis Colts granted cornerback Kenny Moore his release.
With a defender like Moore hitting the market, Detroit should consider bringing him in and letting Moore compete for a starting job in the slot.
Lions should think about signing Kenny Moore after his release
McCreary entered the league as a 2022 second round pick by the Tennessee Titans. He spent four seasons there before falling out of favor over the final two campaigns. In 55 games with them, McCreary had 253 total tackles, 17 pass deflections and three interceptions. When he started in 10-plus games for the Titans (2022 to 2023), he allowed 60-plus catches and 600-plus receiving yards.
He was traded to the Rams in 2025 but couldn't crack the starting lineup, playing in 110 total snaps. The Auburn product has his work cut out for him, as he hasn't shown he can be a consistent starter for several seasons.
Now input Moore, whose a nine-year veteran with 111 starts under his belt. In each of the last six seasons, he has logged at least 500 snaps in the slot. An underrated aspect of Moore's game is his ability to stick his nose in the run game, logging a 73 or higher run defense grade on Pro Football Focus.
In terms of a pass defender, Moore he would be an upgrade over McCreary. Moore has allowed under 550 receiving yards in five of his nine NFL seasons, including last year. That would be an improvement to what McCreary has shown.
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It's also worth mentioning that Moore will likely want to play for a contender, which is something the Lions can offer. For a Detroit team that needs better play from their secondary, Moore is an addition that could help upgrade this position.
The Lions gave McCreary a low-cost, prove it deal. While it could work in their favor, having a former Pro Bowler join the team at this portion of the offseason shouldn't go under the radar.
Moore getting released allows the Lions to negotiate on their terms. For a player looking to get signed in May, it shouldn't cost too much to bring him in, especially with Detroit sitting on $22 million in cap space, per Overthecap.
Detroit has made several additions to enhance this roster and the idea of adding Moore is something that should entice the front office.
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