The Detroit Lions are looking at cornerback help after a rough night against Buffalo, and one name on the radar is Kenny Moore II.
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported that the Lions have “checked in” on the former Pro Bowl cornerback, who is currently a free agent after being released by the Indianapolis Colts in the spring when the team couldn’t find a trade partner. Garafolo said on “The Insiders” before Sunday’s 1 p.m.
ET slate that Moore has drawn attention from multiple teams. “Sounds like he [Moore] has got a lot of interest from multiple teams in need of a cornerback because of depth reasons and injury reasons,” Garofolo said.
“The Lions amongst the teams that have checked in on Kenny Moore. I’m expecting the veteran former Pro Bowler to sign with a team in the very near future.”
Moore’s path to this point has been a long one. He entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2017 out of Valdosta State, initially with the New England Patriots before the Colts claimed him ahead of the season. He went on to spend nine seasons in Indianapolis, appearing in 132 games and starting 111, with most of that work coming in the slot.
His best season came in 2021, when he picked off four passes and broke up 13 more on the way to his only Pro Bowl nod. At 5-foot-9 and 190 pounds, Moore has still made his name on physical play, especially against the run. His PFF run-defense grades have been strong over the years, including 86.2 in 2019, 80.5 in 2022, and 84.4 last season, which ranked fifth among all cornerbacks in 2025.
Detroit’s need could grow even more depending on Avonte Maddox, who left Thursday’s game against the Bills with a foot injury. That situation could force some movement in the secondary.
The Lions held an open competition for the starting nickel job over the summer, and Christian Izien appeared to have that spot before he was injured ahead of Week 1. With that kind of uncertainty, Moore would give Detroit a veteran option to help steady the group.
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