Detroit Lions Eye Veteran Safety Marcus Williams for Depth Role
The Detroit Lions have developed one of the league’s strongest safety duos in Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch, thanks to GM Brad Holmes’ draft success. However, even top-tier tandems need quality depth. A new report suggests Detroit may be looking to add veteran safety Marcus Williams as insurance behind its starters.
Logan Ulrich of NFL Rumors reports that the Lions are a potential landing spot for Williams, who was recently released by the Baltimore Ravens following a disappointing 2024 season. Ulrich believes the move would strengthen Detroit’s secondary depth and give defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard more flexibility.
“Detroit’s depth at safety is thin behind Joseph and Branch,” Ulrich wrote. “Although Williams struggled last year, he’s still an upgrade over the current backups. His addition would also allow Branch to shift around the secondary.”
Williams, who signed a five-year, $70 million deal with Baltimore in 2022, is now a free agent after dealing with multiple injuries and a drop in performance. Despite a tough 2024, he has 106 career starts and a history of strong play, especially as a deep coverage safety.
If the Lions sign him, Williams likely wouldn’t be expected to start. Instead, he could provide reliable depth, contribute in special packages, and possibly play on special teams. His presence would also allow Branch to occasionally return to the nickel corner role, where he thrived in 2023.
Big Picture
The Lions are no longer just a playoff team—they’re contenders. For a team chasing a championship, depth matters. Signing Marcus Williams wouldn’t be a flashy move, but it could be a smart, low-cost way to strengthen a key position.
Bottom Line
Marcus Williams doesn’t need to return to Pro Bowl form to help Detroit. The Lions just need him ready if called upon. In today’s pass-heavy NFL, having capable depth in the secondary is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
