The Detroit Lions have made their first big move of NFL free agency in 2023.
Cornerback Cam Sutton is signing a three-year deal worth $33 million with $22.5 million guaranteed, according to NFL Network.
It’s the biggest free-agent contract handed out under general manager Brad Holmes and coach Dan Campbell in their three years of free agency. But the move, at first glance, is drawing praise from analysts.
Sutton, 28, was a third-round pick out of Tennessee by the Steelers in 2017. He has appeared in 84 games with 39 starts over six seasons and has eight interceptions.
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Sutton, 5 feet 11 and 188 pounds, had a career-best three INTs last season and a career-best 15 passes defensed. His 65.3 QB rating in 2022 when targeted in the passing game, per Pro Football Reference, is stellar.
Sutton has started 31 games over the past two years. He offers “scheme versatility” with ability to play outside and in the slot, according to former NFL defensive back and current ESPN analyst Matt Bowen.
The Lions had a desperate need at cornerback and had around $21 million in cap space to spend entering Monday. The Lions allowed more yards per pass attempt than every team but the 3-14 Chicago Bears last season. Sutton joins Jerry Jacobs and Jeff Okudah as the Lions’ top three corners currently under contract.
Here’s more reaction from Twitter.
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