As the Detroit Lions shift gears into the offseason, the focus is naturally turning toward what moves lie ahead. And while fans might dream of splashy trades or headline-grabbing signings, history tells us GM Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell are more about building brick by brick than swinging for the fences.
That said, nothing is truly off the table-not in today’s NFL. Free agency, the trade market, and the draft all present opportunities, and with that comes a series of tough decisions.
One name that’s quietly entered the trade conversation? Cornerback Terrion Arnold.
Now, this isn’t the obvious candidate most would expect. In fact, Arnold's name hasn’t really been circulating in trade rumors-at least not until now. But according to a recent offseason trade candidate list, the former first-round pick could be a player the Lions quietly gauge interest in.
Let’s unpack that.
Arnold’s rookie campaign in 2024 was a rollercoaster. He came into the league with high expectations, but like many young corners, he had his welcome-to-the-NFL moment.
Penalties piled up early as he adjusted to the speed and physicality of pro receivers-and more importantly, to what officials will and won’t let slide. But to his credit, he responded.
Midway through the season, Arnold began to settle in. The Lions leaned on more man and press coverage, and Arnold thrived in that environment.
He started looking more like the player Detroit hoped they were getting when they used a first-round pick on him. His confidence grew, and so did his impact on the field.
Unfortunately, that momentum didn’t carry into Year 2.
Arnold suffered a shoulder injury in Week 5 of the 2025 season. At first, it looked like he might avoid a long-term absence, but he missed two games.
Then, in November, a concussion sidelined him for another two contests. The real setback came on December 1, when the Lions placed him on injured reserve after what appeared to be a re-aggravation of the shoulder issue.
He underwent season-ending surgery shortly after.
So where does that leave things?
Arnold still has two years remaining on his rookie deal, with $4.85 million in guaranteed money. There’s also a fifth-year option for 2028, which gives the team-or any potential suitor-added flexibility. For a young corner with upside and cost control, that’s a valuable asset.
The Lions’ secondary is already facing plenty of questions this offseason. Injuries, inconsistency, and depth concerns all loom large.
That’s part of what makes the idea of trading Arnold feel like a long shot. He’s young, talented, and under contract at a team-friendly number.
But if another team sees the potential and comes calling with a compelling offer, Holmes might have to at least listen.
This isn’t about the Lions actively shopping Arnold. It’s about the reality that in the NFL, every player has a price-especially when a team is trying to take the next step from contender to champion. If a team believes Arnold just needs a fresh start and is willing to pay for that belief, the Lions could find themselves with a decision to make.
For now, it’s just a name to file away. But don’t be surprised if Terrion Arnold’s situation becomes one of the more intriguing storylines to watch as the offseason unfolds.