Detroit Lions hosting free agent CB Corn Elder for a visit

The Detroit Lions continue their search to improve their thin secondary. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Lions are hosting free agent cornerback Corn Elder for a visit on Thursday morning.

Elder, a 2017 fifth-round pick by the Carolina Panthers, fought through injuries the first three years of his career, and when he was on the field, he mostly served a special teams role. However, last season Elder stepped up and took on a significant role on the Panthers' defense as their nickel cornerback. Per PFF, Elder logged 302 snaps in the slot last season and earned himself a solid 68.5 PFF grade with three passes defended and a forced fumble.

At 5-foot-10, 185 pounds Elder is on the small side and his athletic scores are poor, but his play spoke for itself last year, and he could be an affordable addition for the Lions. Detroit currently doesn’t have a starting nickel cornerback on their roster after cutting Justin Coleman and letting Darryl Roberts leave in free agency. Adding Elder would at least give them a starting option at the position while they continue to search for competition in free agency and the draft.

Elder is just one player the Lions are considering in their secondary. They were reportedly in on cornerback K’Waun Williams before he re-signed with the 49ers, and they will be bringing in Quinton Dunbar for a visit sometime next week.

For all of the Lions' free agency and offseason moves, check out our 2021 tracker.