This is a site that covers the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, it was another team that had big news yesterday which is the inspiration for this article. A move that could have ripple effects all the way from Michigan.
It was announced yesterday that the Detroit Lions have released their starting cornerback Terrion Arnold. This comes in the face of allegations of kidnapping charges and several felonies being brought against Arnold. The team chose to cut ties and anticipate that the 2024 first round pick might be facing serious jail time.
So how does this affect the Bucs? It means that general manager Jason Licht has an opportunity to go back to the well and make a trade with the Lions. Here’s how the Lions’ misfortune can be an opportunity for the Buccaneers.
Things That Make You Go Hmmm
The Bucs have some questions in their cornerback room. Jacob Parrish is moving to the outside and Benjamin Morrison is looking to get his feet under him in year two. After promising rookie years last season, these two appear to be the future of the secondary moving forward.
The team will also have a new rookie starter this year. Keonte Scott was drafted in the fourth round to be the new nickel as Parrish moves outside. Scott is viewed as a big talent who is an odd fit in some places as he is likely a nickel only player.
Then there is Zyon McCollum. He is coming off a down year after making strides every season and getting a nice contract extension going into last season. Now he is a high paid cornerback whose future and starting position is very much in doubt.Â
However, McCollum is also the veteran in the room. With two second year players and a rookie as the other potential starting options, there is something to be said about the experience that he brings to the table. Let’s be clear, if McCollum returns to his 2024 form then he is a positive asset.
So with his job in jeopardy, could the Bucs be open to trading McCollum? The move would have to come with a corresponding move to sign another veteran corner such as Rasul Douglas. But that wouldn’t necessarily be something that is off the table.
Let’s remember, Licht and Lions general manager Brad Holmes do have some history together. It was just two years ago that the Bucs sent their number one corner Carlton Davis to the Lions in exchange for a third round pick. Now, in a time of desperation for Detroit, could they look to do that again?
Worth NotingÂ
It is also worth noting that the Lions secondary is currently in shambles. All Pro safety Kirby Joseph has a knee injury that is surrounded in mystery and it is unclear if he will ever play again. Pro Bowl safety Brian Branch is coming off a late season Achilles tear. And DJ Reed, their big offseason addition at corner last year, looked like a flop in year one.
The Lions need cornerback help in the worst way. McCollum provides a legitimate starter who is potentially on the outside looking in with the Bucs in terms of startering. A trade is a calculated risk for both teams that makes some sense.
If McCollum has another down year then the Bucs could cut him after this season anyway. If there is a chance to get value for him, then it’s worth thinking about. And if that brings another 3rd round pick (which the Bucs used to draft Jalen McMillan previously) then that could mean another important asset for the Bucs moving forward.
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