BREAKING: Lions Target ‘$27 Million DB’ to Patch Defensive Holes After Brian Branch Suspension

The Detroit Lions are entering a turbulent week as their defense faces serious setbacks. Three key members of the secondary — Terrion Arnold, D.J. Reed, and Brian Branch — will all miss the upcoming “Monday Night Football” clash with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Reed remains on injured reserve, Arnold has yet to recover from a shoulder injury, and Branch is suspended for one game after a postgame altercation in Kansas City. The situation has forced Detroit to urgently seek reinforcements to stabilize its secondary.

According to league sources, the Lions’ front office is seriously considering the addition of an experienced defensive back (DB) who can immediately step into a starting role. Losing three core defenders at once has thrown head coach Dan Campbell’s defensive system off balance. With Detroit still chasing contention in the NFC, a timely acquisition could prove decisive in maintaining the team’s competitive edge and keeping their playoff hopes intact.

Reports from Pro Football Focus (PFF) suggest the Lions are among the top potential suitors for a veteran DB currently playing in Miami. The player, a former standout with the Buffalo Bills, has been praised for his sharp instincts, quick reaction time, and physical style of play — traits the Lions have been missing. Dan Campbell is reportedly intrigued by the idea of adding a proven locker-room leader who can bring both toughness and stability to a battered defensive unit.

BREAKING: Lions Target ‘$27 Million DB’ to Patch Defensive Holes After Brian Branch Suspension pic.twitter.com/LOULYYwYEX

— Adam Schefler (@ScheflerAdamUs) October 16, 2025

That player is Rasul Douglas, a 31-year-old defensive back now with the Miami Dolphins. Douglas has previously played for the Philadelphia Eagles, Carolina Panthers, Green Bay Packers, and Buffalo Bills before joining Miami in August. Known for his composure, versatility, and veteran leadership, Douglas has earned respect at every stop. With the Dolphins struggling both on and off the field, he’s viewed as a prime trade candidate as Miami looks to reset its roster. When asked about the rumors linking him to Detroit, Douglas responded confidently:
“They can doubt, they can talk — I’ve heard it all before. But when I step on that field in Detroit, I’m bringing everything I’ve learned, every hit, every scar, every lesson from nine seasons. This is where I prove that grit isn’t just a word — it’s who I am, and it’s what Lions football is made of.”

To date, Rasul Douglas has appeared in 126 career NFL games, starting 84 of them. He’s recorded 19 interceptions, 83 pass breakups, three defensive touchdowns, and four forced fumbles. Those numbers reflect his durability and consistency over nine NFL seasons. Notably, Douglas has earned more than $27 million across his career — a testament to his reliability and value throughout his professional journey with several top-tier franchises.

According to PFF, Douglas is enjoying another strong campaign, earning a 77.9 coverage grade with three pass breakups on 161 coverage snaps. His steady performance has made him one of the most intriguing trade targets ahead of the midseason deadline. With the Dolphins sitting at a disappointing 1–5 record and facing persistent locker-room issues, Miami is expected to entertain offers for several veterans. That opens the door for Detroit to make a timely move before rivals step in.

Detroit has already started reinforcing its defensive depth. The team recently signed Jammie Robinson from the Kansas City Chiefs’ practice squad on a one-year deal. However, Robinson primarily plays as a backup safety and doesn’t solve the team’s cornerback shortage. That makes a potential deal for Douglas — who can line up effectively on either boundary — an ideal solution for Dan Campbell, providing immediate flexibility and experience in a depleted defensive backfield.

If the trade materializes, Rasul Douglas could instantly bring leadership, steadiness, and veteran savvy to Detroit’s struggling secondary. His arrival would not only fill the temporary void left by Branch’s suspension but could also strengthen the Lions’ long-term defensive foundation. With the team aiming to cement its position as a true NFC contender, acquiring the “$27 million DB” might be exactly the decisive move needed to keep Detroit’s playoff momentum alive.