The Detroit Lions have been active in free agency, but they recently missed out on a player who was considered a “perfect” fit for the team. The player in question is safety Juan Thornhill, who ultimately signed with the Cleveland Browns.
Thornhill was a highly sought-after free agent, and the Lions were among the teams interested in his services. He was considered a perfect fit for the Lions due to his versatility and ability to play both safety and slot corner. Thornhill’s skillset would have been a great addition to the Lions’ secondary, which has been a area of concern for the team in recent years.
The Lions’ interest in Thornhill was likely due to his impressive performance with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he won a Super Bowl ring in 2020. Thornhill’s ability to play multiple positions and make plays on the ball would have been a valuable asset to the Lions’ defense.
Despite their interest, the Lions were unable to land Thornhill, who ultimately chose to sign with the Browns. The Browns’ offer was reportedly more lucrative than the Lions’, which may have been a factor in Thornhill’s decision.
The Lions’ failure to land Thornhill is a disappointment, but it’s not a devastating blow. The team still has other options in free agency and the draft to address their needs in the secondary. However, Thornhill’s signing with the Browns is a reminder that the Lions face stiff competition in free agency, and they must be aggressive and strategic in their pursuit of top talent.
In the end, the Lions will have to move on from Thornhill and focus on other targets. The team’s front office, led by general manager Brad Holmes, will have to be creative and resourceful in their efforts to build a competitive roster. Despite missing out on Thornhill, the Lions still have a chance to make a splash in free agency and set themselves up for success in the 2023 season.