Terrion Arnold is lined up for a big immediate role in the Lions’ secondary, and he has made a list of highly-touted incoming rookies.
The Detroit Lions were pleasantly surprised when cornerback Terrion Arnold fell far enough to make trade up for him in the first round palatable. He seems to be a perfect all-around fit, summed up nicely by what he told Justin Melo of The Draft Network about why he likes likes to play man coverage over zone.
“I prefer man coverage. It’s special to take another man’s willpower away from him in man coverage.”
Terrion Arnold: Career best 14 forced incompletions in 2023 (2nd among all SEC CBs) 🔒 pic.twitter.com/kWApWROlRr
— PFF DET Lions (@PFF_Lions) April 26, 2024
Arnold further bolsters a Lions’ cornerback depth chart that was remodeled this season, and easily tabbed by Pro Football Focus as one of the most improved position groups in the NFL after the draft. His all-around skill set lines him up to be an immediate starter and rarely leave the field as he lines up on the outside or in the slot, if the draft capital investment didn’t already foretell it.
Lions’ Terrion Arnold makes list of highly-regarded incoming rookies
Maurice Moton of Bleacher Report has made a list of 10 NFL rookies who could be Pro Bowlers or All-Pros in 2024. It’s not expressly ranked 1-10, but for whatever it’s worth Arnold is at the top.
“The Detroit Lions selected Terrion Arnold two spots after the Philadelphia picked Quinyon Mitchell, who’s the first cornerback drafted in the 2024 class.”
“Arnold landed in a better spot to launch his career into stardom though.”
“The Lions could immediately start Arnold opposite Carlton Davis. Detroit released cornerback Cameron Sutton after learning about his arrest warrant for domestic battery by strangulation.”
“….despite generating the highest pocket pressure rate (28.2 percent), Detroit ranked 27th in passing yards and passing touchdowns allowed last year……With consistent pressure up front, Arnold may have plenty of opportunities to force turnovers on hurried throws.”
Seven rookies made the Pro Bowl rosters last year, ranging from high draft picks (C.J. Stroud) to those who were lesser-known coming in (Puka Nacua). Arnold will have the sheer opportunity to do so as a rookie this year (i.e. playing time), and he just might get it done.
