Detroit Lions cornerback Amik Robertson has emerged as a potential trade candidate, with the Carolina Panthers reportedly interested in acquiring the veteran defender. Robertson, who signed a two-year, $9 million deal with the Lions earlier in 2024, could become expendable due to the Lions’ deep and revamped cornerback room. As the Panthers continue searching for ways to bolster their secondary, the 26-year-old presents a cost-effective and proven option.
Robertson’s 2024 season was quietly productive. Playing 57% of the defensive snaps, he tallied 50 total tackles, four tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, and eight pass breakups. He brought physicality and aggressiveness to the outside cornerback position, traits that align well with what Carolina’s defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero looks for in his scheme. Though not an elite cover corner, Robertson offers versatility and experience, which could be invaluable for a Panthers defense that has struggled to maintain consistency in the secondary.
The Lions, meanwhile, have been aggressive this offseason in upgrading their cornerback group. Detroit signed veterans D.J. Reed, Rock Ya-Sin, and Avonte Maddox in free agency. Additionally, the team selected standout rookies Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw in the NFL Draft, giving them a blend of youth and experience that could push Robertson down the depth chart. With limited starting opportunities and a potential $4.2 million in cap savings from a trade, moving Robertson could be a strategic move for Detroit.
From the Panthers’ perspective, the acquisition would make sense. Carolina has invested heavily in defensive backs like Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson, but Horn has dealt with injuries, and the team lacks reliable depth behind its starters. Robertson would likely compete for the nickel or rotational outside role, offering an insurance policy against injury and adding a physical edge to the unit. He also brings playoff experience from his time with the Raiders and Lions, which could be valuable for a young team trying to establish a winning culture.
While no deal is imminent, the logic behind the trade is clear for both sides. The Lions have roster flexibility and a crowded defensive backfield, while the Panthers are in need of plug-and-play contributors. Financially, the trade benefits Detroit by freeing up cap space and avoiding the logjam in their secondary. For Carolina, the move would be low-risk and high-upside, particularly if Robertson fits seamlessly into Evero’s defensive system.
Ultimately, whether or not the trade materializes could depend on injuries, training camp battles, and the Panthers’ evaluation of their younger defensive backs. However, Amik Robertson’s name is one to watch as roster cutdowns approach and teams look to solidify their rotations. With proven productivity, a reasonable contract, and positional versatility, he could be one of the more valuable under-the-radar trade chips available this offseason.
