Detroit Lions Claim Cornerback Corey Ballentine Off Waivers

The Detroit Lions add defensive back, ahead of nationally televised game in Week 2.

John Maakaron | Sep 16, 2021

After cornerback Jeff Okudah was lost for the 2021 season, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell noted that the team would soon need to add a replacement and that general manager Brad Holmes was exploring different options.

“We need to add someone just to help us on the overall roster, even from a practice standpoint. We’re looking into that. Brad’s looking into it, and that’s coming," Campbell said. "That will probably be sooner than later.”

On Thursday, it was reported the Lions successfully claimed cornerback Corey Ballentine off of waivers.

Ballentine played college football at Division II Washburn University, and appeared in 46 games on defense, but also served as the team's kick returner.

Ballentine was selected by the New York Giants in the sixth round (180th overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft.

Unfortunately, he was waived in November of 2020, and was subsequently claimed by the New York Jets.

In his brief career, he has recorded 46 tackles and two passes defensed, to go along with 761 return yards.

"We’re going to put the best combination out there and see where we go," Campbell said. "But, listen, it’s next man up, and we said that from day one. It doesn’t matter who’s in there. All that matters is who’s in there does what they’re asked to do and does it the very best that they can do it.”

The Lions' roster is now set at the 53-man limit, following Thursday's waiver claim and offensive tackle Will Holden being signed to the active roster from the practice squad.

ballentine5 — © Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

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Published Sep 16, 2021

JOHN MAAKARON

John Maakaron has covered Detroit Sports since 2013. Brings a vast array of experience covering the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Mercy Titans, and Oakland University Golden Grizzlies. John brings a wealth of sports broadcast experience. In 2013, John had the vision to establish the Detroit Sports Podcast Network. Has recorded over 3000 podcasts analyzing Detroit Sports. In 2019, Sports Illustrated Media Group, a historical sports media outlet, partnered with Detroit Sports Podcast to provide daily Lions content for their growing and expanding digital media outlet. Our Lions content can also be read in the newspaper at The Oakland Passionate about Detroit Sports and it is reflected in his coverage of the local teams!