The Detroit Lions signed Cameron Sutton from Steelers
The Detroit Lions have made a significant move in free agency, signing cornerback Cameron Sutton to a three-year deal worth $33M with $22.5M guaranteed. Sutton, who was arguably one of the top three corners available in free agency this year, brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Lions' secondary.
Sutton had an impressive 2022 season, allowing just a 47.9 percent completion rate and a 65.3 passer rating in his coverage. He also had three interceptions and 15 pass breakups. As a full-time starter, Sutton earned a career-best 72.2 grade and allowed just 0.76 yards per coverage snap, placing him 11th among cornerbacks with at least 200 coverage snaps on the season.
One of Sutton's most significant strengths is his versatility, as he can play both inside and outside positions. While he has been a starter on the outside for the past two seasons, he has the ability to offer the Lions added flexibility in their defense.
Sutton's impressive stats from last season speak for themselves. He allowed just 32 receptions on 72 targets, and his 44.4% completion percentage allowed was tied for the 4th-lowest in a season since 2016 (min. 50 targets).
The Lions' secondary struggled in 2022, allowing the highest CPOE (+1.5%) in the NFL. Sutton's signing should help the Lions improve their pass defense significantly and provide some much-needed depth to their cornerback position. With Sutton in the mix, the Lions' defense is shaping up to be much more formidable in the upcoming season.
