The Detroit Lions secured the top spot in the NFC for the 2024 NFL Playoffs, finishing the regular season with a 15-2 record. They will now await their opponent in the divisional round.

A 15-2 record typically indicates a strong, well-rounded roster, but the Lions’ secondary is one area of concern. They rank 30th in the league for passing defense and could lose veteran cornerback Carlton Davis in free agency.

Bradley Locker of Pro Football Focus recently highlighted one free agent each team should target this offseason. For the Lions, Locker suggested pursuing Byron Murphy Jr., the $17.5 million starting cornerback from the Minnesota Vikings.

Murphy has had an outstanding season, setting career highs in tackles and interceptions while posting his best-ever PFF coverage grade.

Locker believes Murphy would be a great fit in Detroit, stating:

“It’s hard to find significant weaknesses on a 15-2 team, but the Lions may need to strengthen their cornerback group for 2025,” Locker explained.

“With Carlton Davis and Kindle Vildor both on expiring contracts and Terrion Arnold (50.4 PFF coverage grade) struggling in his first season, the Lions have enough cap space (around $57 million) to make a move, and Murphy would be a solid option.”

Murphy, 26, has excelled in his contract year, posting a career-high 72.6 PFF coverage grade and allowing a passer rating of just 80.5 when targeted, the 23rd-best mark among qualified cornerbacks. Locker noted that while the Lions will likely attempt to re-sign Davis, Murphy could be an excellent alternative.

Murphy, who signed a two-year, $17.5 million contract with the Vikings in 2023, will be a free agent again after his best season. With plenty of cap room to make a significant addition, the Lions could pursue Murphy if they let Davis go or lack confidence in Ennis Rakestraw Jr.