Could Lions Pursue Jaylon Johnson in Free Agency?

Will increased cap allow Lions to pursue top CB?

The Detroit Lions are among the teams with the most cap space heading into free agency. 

Whether or not the Lions will elect to spend on external free agents remains to be seen. The team established itself as a contender with its run to the NFC Championship game, and can bolster its chances at immediate success by adding veteran talent.

Among their biggest areas of need is at the cornerback position. Considered among the most valuable positions, top free agents will command a hefty amount. 

One of the top players potentially available on the free-agent market also plays in the NFC North. Jaylon Johnson, currently a Chicago Bears defensive back, is considered among the top cornerbacks set to hit the market.

If the Bears elect not to utilize the franchise tag on Johnson, he could hit free agency. Should this happen, he'll likely command a hefty contract. 

Detroit faces an interesting conundrum this offseason. With one of the league's highest available pool of cap, the organization has the opportunity to spend on a big free agent such as Johnson. 

The Bears' top-rated defender in 2023 by Pro Football Focus, Johnson enjoyed a superb season in Chicago. He had four interceptions, and notched 10 passes defensed, along with 36 tackles.

He's a bonafide top coverage corner, as evidenced by his 33.3 passer rating allowed this year, per PFF. Additionally, he allowed just a 50 percent completion percentage on passes thrown his way. 

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The Lions didn't have a true shutdown corner in 2023. Cam Sutton had an up-and-down year as the team's top option, and really struggled to contain top wideouts late in the year and throughout the playoffs. 

A lanky and athletic cornerback, Johnson has the ability to use his range to track deep passes, while still being a threat in the short game. He also has proven production as a boundary corner, which is exactly what the Lions need. 

As a result, the organization would definitely benefit from examining the market and trying to acquire a top player at the position. 

However, a long-term commitment further complicates things. Detroit has several key players that are due for extensions and entering contract years, including quarterback Jared Goff and wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown. 

As a result, the Lions may not be able to allot space for a hefty long-term contract. This would make it difficult to commit to a player like Johnson, who has done enough to warrant a long-term contract. 

Detroit is in a precarious position as it enters its Super Bowl window. Holmes and the rest of the organization's brass must wisely navigate the salary cap as they look to keep the core intact, but also explore opportunities to make the team better. 

The increased salary cap space will give Holmes the opportunity to make a big move. However, whether or not he chooses to do so remains a mystery.