Terrion Arnold inked his rookie contract with the Lions on Thursday, as announced by the team. With this signing, all members of Detroit’s draft class are now officially on board.
Addressing a pressing need at cornerback, the Lions made significant moves this offseason, including trading for Carlton Davis and signing Amik Robertson. However, the departure of Cameron Sutton after his domestic violence arrest created a gap that the Lions aimed to fill through the draft.
In the 2024 draft, Detroit traded up five spots to No. 24, securing Arnold and preventing their division rival, the Packers, from potentially selecting him at No. 25. Arnold, an Alabama product, was highly coveted, and his arrival in Detroit comes with high expectations.
Arnold had a standout role for the Crimson Tide in 2022, recording one interception and eight pass breakups. Although his teammate Kool-Aid McKinstry was initially seen as a better prospect, Arnold’s performance in 2023 elevated his status. He led the SEC in interceptions (five) and was second in pass deflections (12), earning first-team All-SEC and All-American honors.
The Lions further bolstered their secondary by selecting Ennis Rakestraw Jr. in the second round. Arnold and Rakestraw will compete for starting roles alongside Davis, Robertson, and versatile 2023 second-round pick Brian Branch. Arnold’s addition is expected to significantly enhance Detroit’s pass defense this season.
Here’s a summary of the Lions’ 2024 draft class:
– Round 1, No. 24 (from Cowboys): Terrion Arnold (CB, Alabama) (signed)
– Round 2, No. 61: Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (CB, Missouri) (signed)
– Round 4, No. 126 (from Packers through Jets): Giovanni Manu (T, British Columbia) (signed)
– Round 4, No. 132 (from 49ers through Eagles): Sione Vaki (S, Utah) (signed)
– Round 6, No. 189 (from Broncos through Rams, Bills, and Texans): Mekhi Wingo (DT, LSU) (signed)
– Round 6, No. 201 (from Buccaneers): Christian Mahogany (G, Boston College) (signed)
