With the expected offseason release of Tracy Walker, and the also-expected free agency departure of C.J. Gardner-Johnson, the Detroit Lions seemed lined up to take a safety somewhere in the recent draft. Fourth-round pick Sione Vaki played the position pretty well at Utah, but there seems to be other plans for his primary immediate role.
The Lions projected starters at safety are Kerby Joseph and Ifeatu Melifonwu. At the unveiling of the new uniforms, Joseph revealed he had hip surgery and will be out until training camp. Melifonwu has battled injuries of varying degrees in all three of his NFL seasons.
There has been talk about Brian Branch seeing more time at safety next season, but moving him completely off the nickel corner role he was so good in last year doesn't seem like a great idea. Brandon Joseph, who was brought in as an undrafted rookie last year and stuck around on the practice squad, has an opportunity to earn a roster spot.
Before the draft, head coach Dan Campbell pointed to safety as a spot that would be targeted for reinforcements. But as mentioned, Vaki's immediate role is lined up to be multi-faceted as a running back, special teamer and possible occasional safety. Depth at the position has to be a lingering concern for the Lions.
So a veteran addition to the safety room makes a lot of sense right now. There are some noteworthy options out there, even now into May and after the draft.
More specifically, in search of the best fits, here are a half-dozen free agent safeties the Lions should have on their radar.