After being plagued by injuries throughout last season, the Detroit Lions prioritized re-signing several players and bringing in a number of free agents to avoid a similar situation in 2025.
Many of their additions focused on the defensive side, as the team lost Carlton Davis, Kindle Vildor, and Ifeatu Melifonwu to free agency.
To their credit, the Lions addressed the departures of Davis and Melifonwu by bringing in veteran cornerbacks D.J. Reed on a sizable three-year contract and Avonte Maddox on a one-year deal. Detroit is counting on both to make an immediate impact in 2025.
As for Vildor’s replacement, the Lions already had an internal solution. They re-signed cornerback Khalil Dorsey to a two-year, $3.3 million deal. While the move may have flown under the radar, Dorsey has been a key contributor on special teams.
Lions CB Khalil Dorsey Could Help Detroit in More Ways Than One in 2025
Dorsey will have an opportunity to compete for the CB3 role during training camp, as the spot remains open. The Lions are also hopeful that 2024 second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr. can rebound from an injury-filled rookie season, but he’ll have to earn the job rather than have it handed to him.
Last season, Dorsey recorded 14 total tackles, two pass breakups, and one tackle for loss over 14 games, including one start. Despite limited defensive snaps, the 27-year-old allowed a 54.5% completion rate and a 99.6 passer rating when targeted.
He also contributed on special teams, getting a few opportunities in the kick return game—averaging an impressive 39.8 yards on four returns, a significant jump from his 2023 average of 20.3 yards on 12 attempts.
Unfortunately, his season was cut short after suffering a fractured fibula and tibia in Week 15 against the Buffalo Bills. According to head coach Dan Campbell, Dorsey was among the players who were either limited or not active during the team’s OTA practices in May.
With training camp approaching, Dorsey’s health and his push for the CB3 role will be something to watch. While he may not win the job—which seems likely—the Lions still retain one of their top special teams contributors.
And if injuries become an issue again, as they did in 2024, Detroit can take comfort in knowing they have a reliable, experienced player who’s been in their system since 2022 and can step in on defense if needed.
