With the Detroit Lions losing both of their coordinators, Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson, to the New York Jets and Chicago Bears, respectively, there has been speculation about whether any assistants or players will follow them to their new teams. While it’s possible some Lions staff could make the move, Pro Football Focus’ Mason Cameron believes it’s likely that at least one player could follow as well—cornerback Carlton Davis. Davis, who is set to hit free agency after a one-year, $14.5 million deal with the Lions, could reunite with Glenn in New York, where Glenn now serves as head coach of the Jets.
Before suffering a season-ending fractured jaw in Week 15, Davis had been a standout in the Lions’ secondary, recording 11 forced incompletions through 15 weeks, ranking ninth in the NFL. Davis’ ability to disrupt passing attacks, particularly in press coverage, was a key strength, and his performance in such situations could make him an ideal fit for Glenn’s aggressive defensive schemes. Glenn, known for relying on press coverage, could provide Davis with the ideal system in which to excel, as he allowed only seven open targets in press situations despite playing many snaps in that role.
However, the Jets’ interest in Davis may depend on the future of D.J. Reed, who has been an excellent No. 2 cornerback opposite Sauce Gardner but is also set to hit free agency. Reed has expressed his desire to explore free agency, adding further uncertainty to the Jets’ cornerback position. If Reed leaves, Davis could step in as a potential replacement, especially given his strong performance in 2024. Davis posted a 55.3% completion rate allowed and a passer rating of 77.0 when targeted, making him a solid candidate for the Jets’ defense.
The biggest concern with Davis, however, has been his injury history. The 28-year-old has never played a full season and has missed at least two games in every year of his career. Since 2020, he has not played more than 13 games in a season, making durability a significant factor to consider.
Detroit may still want to bring Davis back, especially with uncertainty surrounding second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr., who struggled in his rookie season due to injury. Lions general manager Brad Holmes praised Davis’ performance in 2024, noting that he had played better than the previous year in Tampa Bay.
For Glenn, entering a new situation in New York, Davis could provide a reliable veteran presence who is already familiar with his defensive schemes. Davis would also give the Jets a strong No. 2 cornerback and a leadership presence in the locker room.
