Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell has expressed optimism in cornerback Terrion Arnold’s potential to improve, while also contemplating adjustments in the defensive lineup. During a recent interview on Detroit’s 97.1 The Ticket, Campbell hinted at possibly incorporating Amik Robertson into the rotation, allowing Robertson to take on more responsibilities at the outside cornerback position.
Arnold faced a challenging game against the Baltimore Ravens, where he was penalized for a crucial defensive pass interference and struggled against receiver Devontez Walker. Throughout the game, Arnold allowed three catches on five targets, amounting to 58 yards. Despite these setbacks, Campbell remains confident in Arnold’s ability to learn and grow, emphasizing the demanding nature of playing cornerback for the Lions, a team known for its heavy reliance on man coverage.
Currently, the Detroit defense ranks sixth in the NFL for man-coverage rate, and it’s a system that expects cornerbacks to thrive in isolating situations. Last season, Arnold led the league in man coverage snaps, establishing familiarity with the position’s rigorous requirements.
This season, Arnold has participated in man coverage for 40.6% of his snaps, putting him among the top in the league. Yet, his performance has faced scrutiny, with Pro Football Focus ranking him 97th out of 108 qualifying cornerbacks based on his overall coverage grade.
Despite the challenges, Campbell retains faith in Arnold’s development trajectory. He believes that Arnold’s talent and determination will eventually align with the defensive expectations. Nevertheless, the coach is not dismissing the potential benefits of rotating Robertson into the lineup, especially considering Robertson’s past experience in high-pressure games, like his notable performance against the Minnesota Vikings when Carlton Davis III was injured.
Campbell acknowledges the natural fluctuations that occur in a young player’s journey, affirming that patience and continual effort are key to Arnold’s improvement. Meanwhile, Campbell is prepared to leverage Robertson’s abilities, reinforcing the team’s strategy while allowing Arnold to navigate these professional growing pains.
The Lions are navigating this situation with patience and tactical flexibility, demonstrating a commitment to developing their players while remaining competitive. By considering rotations between Arnold and Robertson, the Lions aim to bolster their defense without losing sight of long-term player development.