Detroit Lions Sign Riq Woolen: A Bold Move to Strengthen Their Secondary
In a stunning move that will send shockwaves through the NFC North, the Detroit Lions have signed cornerback Riq Woolen from the Seattle Seahawks. The deal, finalized ahead of the 2025 NFL trade deadline, has instantly bolstered the Lions' secondary, providing a much-needed boost to a defense that has struggled with consistency this season.
Woolen, known for his elite speed, height (standing at 6'4"), and exceptional ball skills, has been one of the most promising young cornerbacks in the league since entering the NFL. His ability to cover top-tier wide receivers and make game-changing plays has made him a valuable asset to the Seahawks. However, with Seattle in rebuilding mode, the Lions have capitalized on the opportunity to secure his services for the foreseeable future.
The contract, reportedly worth $54 million over four years, positions Woolen as a central figure in the Lions' defense. With his physicality and playmaking ability, he’s expected to make an immediate impact, improving Detroit's pass coverage and contributing to a defense that has struggled to contain opposing quarterbacks. Woolen’s ability to shut down passing lanes and create turnovers will complement the Lions’ already potent offense and set the stage for a deep playoff run.
The move was met with praise from Lions’ General Manager Brad Holmes, who expressed his excitement over adding a player of Woolen’s caliber to the roster. "Riq is exactly the type of player we need to elevate our defense," Holmes said. "His size, athleticism, and instincts are unmatched. We believe he can be a game-changer for us, and we're excited to see what he brings to our secondary."
Lions’ head coach Dan Campbell also weighed in on the signing, noting the importance of adding depth and talent to the defense. "Riq’s presence will immediately improve our secondary. He’s not only a top-tier cornerback, but his ability to read the game and make plays will give our defense the edge it needs as we prepare for the postseason," Campbell said.
The signing of Woolen is a clear signal from the Lions that they are committed to competing for the NFC Championship. As the defense improves, the Lions' offense—led by Jared Goff
For Woolen, this is a new chapter in his young career, and he is ready to step into a leadership role. "I'm excited to join this team," Woolen said in his first press conference as a Lion. "The energy here is incredible, and I’m looking forward to contributing in any way I can. Detroit has a bright future, and I’m ready to help bring a championship to this city."
With the addition of Riq Woolen, the Detroit Lions are poised to make waves in the NFC, and this move could be the catalyst for their quest for a Super Bowl title. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Woolen and the Lions' defense to see how they perform in what promises to be a thrilling playoff race.
Jets Target Justin Fields Replacement in New NFL Mock Draft: 'Sky's the Limit'
Justin Fields has 13 games left to determine if he remains with the New York Jets, or see if he can ink a big money payday elsewhere.
One new NFL Mock Draft, though, has the franchise adding his replacement. Even calling this move a "sky's the limit" scenario for the winless Jets.
And this idea arrives after Fields impressed as a runner, but struggled as a passer in the Monday Night Football loss to the Miami Dolphins.
Jets Draft Dynamic, Intriguing Replacement for Justin Fields
Luke Easterling of Athlon Sports calls for LaNorris Sellers of South Carolina as the Jets' QB of the future -- and Fields successor.
"None of the preseason favorites among the top quarterback prospects in this class of lived up to the hype so far, but Sellers is still the one I’m most excited about when it comes to his tools and upside," Easterling wrote in his evaluation.
Sellers and South Carolina have underwhelmed so far in 2025. They're only 3-2 after hearing Heisman Trophy hype for the dual-threat quarterback.
Easterling, however, still believes in Sellers' potential and calls him a prime "long-term replacement" for New York's current QB1.
"He’s still got a rocket arm and rare athleticism/playmaking ability when things break down, and if he can continue to develop as a passer from the pocket, the sky’s the limit," Easterling said. "Justin Fields is playing on a one-year deal, and Sellers could be his long-term replacement."
Does Sellers Rank Ahead of Notable SEC Passers?
Sellers lands at No. 4 to the Jets in this mock. That doesn't make him the first QB taken, though. Fernando Mendoza of Indiana goes two spots ahead to the New Orleans Saints.
The Gamecocks standout, however, lands ahead of some renown SEC passers who garnered equal or more attention before the season.
Arch Manning is nowhere listed in this new mock draft, with many believing he needs another season with Texas amid his '25 struggles. DJ Lagway of Florida is another unmentioned Southeastern Conference star in this first round mock. Even Garrett Nussmeier of LSU goes from top pick to no mention here.
That makes Sellers the top NFL QB talent from the SEC, for this week only.
Sellers can still draw hefty intrigue with his arm strength and ability to make plays under duress. But his stock boosts if he gets South Carolina out of this current inconsistent period its in.
He'll more than likely command top 10 draft attention if the Gamecocks go on a sudden surge with five straight ranked foes all on deck next.
