Lions' Sneaky Offseason Addition Could Fix Biggest Weakness on Defense

The Detroit Lions fell to the Washington Commanders in the playoffs last season after their secondary was decimated by injuries, including the in-game loss of Amik Robertson, who shut down Vikings superstar Justin Jefferson the previous game.

The Lions' secondary's lack of depth and experience have come back to bite the team several years running as the franchise often seems to lose its secondary's key cogs at unexpected times, culminating in last season's disaster.

On Wednesday, Lions insider Tim Twentyman spoke of a player who could help Detroit to shore up and put an end to what has been its biggest weaknesses for several years running. 

Twentyman shared big faith in the Lions' secondary trio of DJ Reed, Terrion Arnold and Robertson, adding that offseason free agent signing Avonte Maddox, who came over from the Super Bowl LIX champion Philadelphia Eagles, could make a big difference in the team's play throughout the season.

"Maddox will enter camp as the backup nickel and No. 3 safety, and it's comforting to know the Lions have some veteran experience in a backup role at each spot," Twentyman added to DetroitLions.com. 

"It's a veteran (secondary) group with versatility and experience. It's one of the position groups I expect to see big gains from in 2025." 

Maddox stands 5 feet, 9 inches and weighs 184 pounds, giving him the type of size usually reserved for nickelbacks. 

A 2018 fourth round draft pick (#125 overall) from the Pittsburgh Panthers, Maddox had 20 total tackles last season and broke up 5 passes for Eagles defensive backs coach Christian Parker's group in Philly. 

His best season came in 2021 when he compiled 73 tackles and forced two fumbles with the Eagles while playing in 16 games with the NFC East Division team.