There's a feeling in local and league circles that the Lions could be players for a big-name cornerback in free agency, the way we hear it. On the other hand, there is some sentiment that if the Lions don't sign a top corner like the Raiders' Nnamdi Asomugha or the Bengals' Johnathan Joseph, the team will not be in dire straits. The Lions had a robust pass rush last season and have proven they can create pressure by rushing four linemen, which can take pressure off of a secondary. Also, the Lions like CBs Alphonso Smith and Chris Houston, we're told. Houston, who could be an unrestricted free agent, played well a season ago.

Linebacker is also a position that needs reinforcements. One personnel man familiar with Detroit's roster, speaking on condition of anonymity, told PFW that while he wouldn't be surprised if the Lions pursued a high-profile cornerback, the Lions' overall defensive depth, while improved, was still an issue that needed to be addressed and was the unit's greatest weakness.