As the Detroit Lions push through a tight playoff race in December, the franchise is simultaneously staring down a pivotal offseason. According to Spotrac, Detroit is projected to have 21 unrestricted free agents, two restricted free agents and one exclusive rights free agent in 2026—meaning several roster decisions loom large. Among them is veteran cornerback Amik Robertson, whose future in Detroit has become increasingly uncertain.
Entering the year, many believed Robertson would be a strong candidate to earn another contract in Detroit after his impressive 2023 campaign. Instead, the 27-year-old defender has endured a rocky season highlighted by inconsistent play and growing frustration among fans. With his performance dipping, it’s becoming likely that Robertson may need to accept a discount if he hopes to remain in the Motor City. Replicating the two-year, $9.5 million deal he signed in 2024 appears improbable.
Forced into significant outside-corner duties because of injuries to Terrion Arnold and D.J. Reed, Robertson has struggled to hold up in boundary coverage. Although opponents are completing just 63.8% of passes against him—similar to last season—he has already surrendered five touchdowns and 13.1 yards per reception. His Pro Football Focus coverage grade has plummeted to 52.7, continuing a two-year downward trend.
Robertson’s issues were glaring during Detroit’s Thanksgiving matchup, where Packers quarterback Jordan Love targeted him heavily, producing 102 yards and a touchdown on six receptions. A week later, Giants receiver Wan’Dale Robinson torched Robertson for eight catches and 99 yards as opposing offenses continued to exploit his size and matchup limitations.
Ideally, Detroit would field a healthy trio of Arnold, Reed and Robertson this season and in 2026. But with Arnold and former second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr. expected to anchor the future secondary alongside Reed, Robertson’s role beyond this season is murky. A team-friendly one-year deal worth around $3–4 million might keep him in consideration, but anything above that likely pushes him out of Detroit’s plans.
The Lions could also opt to retain veteran Rock Ya-Sin instead. The 29-year-old corner has quietly delivered strong play in relief duty, allowing just a 48.3% completion rate and a 77.2 passer rating on 29 targets while surrendering only one touchdown in coverage.
With depth proving crucial in recent seasons, the Lions must weigh consistency, versatility and value as they decide whether Robertson—or someone else—fits into their 2026 defensive blueprint.
