$3.8 million. One year deal.
That's all it took for the Washington Commanders, a potential threat to the Detroit Lions' standing in the NFC this season, to snag cornerback Rasul Douglas off the market. An already thinned-out market on that front is even thinner now with this signing, and the Lions are left flat-footed once again at a major position of need.
Detroit could've had Douglas - a 30 year veteran who just finished up with 13 passes defended and two interceptions - for that very low price. And yet, they didn't bite at the opportunity. Now, Douglas lands with the Commanders, who could be in direct competition with the Lions come the postseason depending on seeding.
Lions left in the dust amid a renewed search for CB help
The Lions have no leg to stand on when it comes to picking apart the pros and cons of the cornerback market at the moment, as they're down one starting corner after releasing an embattled Terrion Arnold. DJ Reed figures to be their other starter, but then that leaves their options at cornerback as Rock Ya-Sin, rookie Keith Abney II, Roger McCreary, and Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
Not exactly an inspiring secondary to trot out against, let's say, Puka Nacua or Justin Jefferson.
This isn't to say that Douglas could've been some savior for the Lions. Again, he's 30 years old, dealt with some ankle injuries in 2025, and might not have the juice to start for a full season in Detroit. However, compared to the remaining free agency market at the position, it was obvious he was the Lions' best option.
"In terms of a veteran presence to provide depth, the Lions could do worse. There isn't much that Douglas hasn't seen in the league, which could make him an interesting piece for a franchise that has a goal of winning big in 2026. He could add significant depth and upside for the Lions," wrote Max DeMara of SideLion Report just yesterday - one day before Douglas signed with the Commanders.
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As for the remaining free agency pool, the Lions could target Marshon Lattimore, Trevon Diggs, Kenny Moore, or Tre'Davious White, just to name a few CBs on the cheaper side.
Or the Lions could forge a reunion with former draft bust Jeff Okudah!
We kid.
In all seriousness, Detroit needs to seriously consider free agency - or, if desperate, the trade market - for some additional CB depth and help. Right now, their roster is not looking strong enough to compete in a deep NFC.
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