The Detroit Lions made a surprise roster move this week, waiving an undrafted rookie and signing veteran cornerback Darnay Holmes

The Detroit Lions made a surprise roster move this week, waiving an undrafted rookie and signing veteran cornerback Darnay Holmes

, formerly of the New York Giants. The decision reflects the team’s commitment to adding experience to a secondary that struggled with consistency during the 2024 season.

Holmes, a fourth-round pick by the Giants in 2020, brings four years of NFL experience and 45 games played to a young Lions defense. Known for his quickness and versatility in the slot, Holmes has recorded two career interceptions and over 100 tackles. His addition provides depth and leadership to a cornerback room that is still developing.

The waived rookie, whose name was not immediately released, was part of the Lions’ undrafted free agent class following the 2025 NFL Draft. Though he showed flashes of potential during rookie minicamp, team sources cited roster balance and veteran need as reasons for the move.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell spoke briefly about the signing, saying, “We liked what we saw in Holmes’ tape — he competes hard, he’s tough, and he understands how to play the nickel. We think he can help us right away.”

Detroit’s secondary has been a focus of offseason improvement. With young talents like Brian Branch and a recently drafted corner expected to play key roles, adding a veteran like Holmes could help stabilize the unit as it prepares for a tough NFC schedule.

Fans had mixed reactions to the move, with some disappointed to see a young player cut early. However, most agree that adding proven NFL experience could be the difference-maker for a team with playoff hopes.

With training camp on the horizon, this may not be the last roster shakeup as the Lions gear up for a high-stakes 2025 season.