Lions Consider Trade for Seahawks Cornerback Riq Woolen Amid Injury Woes
The Detroit Lions are grappling with significant injury concerns in their cornerback unit following their Week 4 victory over the Cleveland Browns. Both D.J. Reed and Terrion Arnold exited the game early due to injuries, prompting the franchise to explore potential trades and free-agent signings to bolster their defense.
Injury Updates on Key Players
Reed’s injury seems particularly troubling. He departed the game with a hamstring issue that appeared quite serious. Arnold, on the other hand, sustained a shoulder injury, which is believed to be less severe. After the game, Lions head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged Reed’s condition, stating, “We all saw Reed’s. I don’t know what that’s going to be or how long. Certainly, I cannot imagine him playing next week at a minimum until we get more tests done.”
Regarding Arnold, Campbell expressed cautious optimism, suggesting, “I don’t think TA’s (Arnold’s) a major injury. I don’t know about him next week, but it’s certainly not as significant as what Reed had.”
Should Reed and Arnold be sidelined, the Lions may have to rely on Amik Robertson and Khalil Dorsey as their starting cornerbacks. Rock Ya-Sin could also be a viable option in the mix. With depth concerns looming, the urgency for the Lions to secure additional support in the secondary is palpable.
Potential Trade Target: Riq Woolen
In light of their cornerback situation, the Lions may want to set their sights on Riq Woolen of the Seattle Seahawks. Reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport indicate that Woolen could be available for trade as the deadline approaches, particularly with the imminent return of Seahawks star cornerback Devon Witherspoon.
“With Seahawks star CB Devon Witherspoon returning on Thursday, teams are monitoring Pro Bowl CB Riq Woolen as a possible trade target by the deadline,” Rapoport noted. “Woolen’s playing time has diminished, and in a contract year, teams believe he could be available.”
Woolen, a former Pro Bowler and fifth-round pick, has consistently exceeded expectations throughout his four seasons in the league. His defensive statistics are impressive; he has allowed completion rates of 57.7% or lower and passer ratings of 79.8 or lower in his first three seasons. However, in 2024, Woolen’s completion rate has risen to 61.1%, with a passer rating against of 106.7 when targeted.
Despite these fluctuations, Woolen has primarily played on the boundary, a position that aligns well with Robertson’s strengths in the slot. With Witherspoon’s return and other players like Josh Jobe and Derion Kendrick stepping up, the Seahawks might consider parting with Woolen, who is now in the final year of his contract.
Given the Lions’ pressing need for cornerback depth, pursuing Woolen could be a strategic move. They would be wise to act swiftly to secure him before the Seahawks potentially change their stance on trading the seasoned defender.
Looking Ahead
As the Lions assess their options, the clock is ticking. With injuries plaguing their secondary, the team must weigh the risks and rewards of acquiring a player like Woolen. The next steps they take could significantly impact their defensive strategy as the season progresses.
