Grading the Detroit Lions’ Signing of Cornerback Avonte Maddox
The Detroit Lions have made a notable addition to their defense by signing cornerback Avonte Maddox. A player known for his ability to contribute in multiple roles, Maddox’s arrival adds a dynamic presence to a secondary that’s undergone significant transformation over the past couple of years. But how does this move affect the Lions? Let’s break down the signing and give it a grade.
Background and Playing Style
Avonte Maddox, drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, has built a respectable career as a versatile cornerback. Standing at 5’9” and weighing 184 pounds, Maddox might not fit the traditional mold of a shutdown corner, but what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for with speed, agility, and intelligence. Over the past few seasons, Maddox has primarily played in the slot, but his skill set allows him to also perform well on the outside when needed. Known for his excellent ball skills and physicality, Maddox is a key contributor in both pass defense and run support.
In 2022, Maddox played 10 games for the Eagles, contributing with 45 tackles, 1 interception, and 5 passes defended. Though injuries have hindered his availability at times—he’s missed significant time in both 2022 and 2021—when healthy, Maddox is a reliable contributor. The Lions are likely hoping that his ability to stay on the field for a full season will be a boon for their defense.
Filling a Need for the Lions
The Detroit Lions have been on an upward trajectory since hiring head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes. After finishing 9-8 in 2022, the team showed significant improvements on both sides of the ball. However, their secondary, while improving, still lacks the depth and consistency needed to compete at the highest levels. The signing of Maddox addresses that need.
Maddox’s primary role with the Lions will likely be in the slot, where the team has struggled to find consistent playmakers. In today’s NFL, having a reliable cornerback who can shut down the slot receiver is critical, as many offenses feature elite wideouts who excel in that position. By adding Maddox, the Lions bolster their pass defense, especially in critical third-down situations.
Additionally, Maddox’s ability to play outside cornerback gives defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn more flexibility in adjusting matchups depending on the opponent. This versatility is a major asset to a defense that often faces elite wide receivers in the NFC North, such as the Minnesota Vikings’ Justin Jefferson or the Green Bay Packers’ Christian Watson.
Injury Concerns
One major downside to this signing is Maddox’s injury history. While Maddox has shown flashes of brilliance when healthy, his injury history could be a concern. Over the past two seasons, he has missed 11 games due to various injuries, including a hamstring injury that cut his 2022 season short. If Maddox can stay healthy, he provides significant upside, but the Lions are gambling a bit by relying on a player with such a checkered injury record. However, given the relatively low-risk, low-cost nature of the deal, it’s a gamble worth taking.
Grade: B+
The signing of Avonte Maddox is a solid move for the Detroit Lions. While there are concerns over his injury history, his versatility and skill set make him a valuable addition to a secondary in need of improvement. If Maddox can stay healthy, he’ll offer both immediate and long-term benefits to the defense. His ability to play both inside and outside, along with his ball skills, provides the Lions with the flexibility and depth they need in their defensive backfield. With a healthy season, Maddox could be a key contributor to a Lions team with playoff aspirations. Thus, the signing earns a solid B+, with the potential to rise if Maddox stays on the field and performs at his best.
