The smartest thing the Lions can do right now is just call the future Hall of Famer sitting on his couch waiting for the phone to ring
I mean, he’s just sitting right there. Call him
The Detroit Lions are in a good spot right now. They’re winners of four straight and have the second-best defense in the league according to DVOA. Yet, there are some big issues to contend with.
D.J. Reed is out for at least a few more weeks, and now Terrion Arnold is out for “a long time.” The Lions are out of both of their starting cornerbacks for who knows how long. It’s time to pick up the phone and call the really good player who can help immediately.
The Lions should be in contact with Stephon Gilmore, like, right now
It just seems so simple. The trade market is one way to go, and the Lions may jump into it for some of the guys who may be available right now. However, it seems the smarter approach is to sign the former Defensive Player of the Year, who is still seeking to play and wants to win a championship.
Gilmore played for the Minnesota Vikings last year, and he looked pretty good at 33 years old. He started 15 games and racked up nine pass breakups and an interception. He was also strong against the run with a 72.6 run defense grade, via Pro Football Focus. So he fits in that regard as well. Basically, everything they need is right there with Gilmore.
On top of that, Reed and Anrold are not expected to be out for the season, according to Lions head coach Dan Campbell, who did not confirm Arnold’s injury as being season-ending. So, Detroit has the opportunity to have Gilmore as part of a really solid rotation once those guys get back. Now, you’ve got your starters and tremendous depth, probably just in time for the playoffs.
It’s also the most cost-effective move. Signing Gilmore means you don’t have to trade any assets away for starters, and then this could be a one-year deal for something similar to what Jaire Alexander just got with the Ravens, a one-year deal worth $4 million. You could even give him a little more based on how good he’s been in his career.
This one just seems too easy. The one concern the Lions may have is that he hasn’t played this year and wasn’t at training camp. Is he in shape, and if he’s not, how long does it take to get him in football shape? For a guy who still wants to play and has never missed a season, you would think he’s probably ready to go. Let’s see what Holmes and company do.
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