The Detroit Lions entered the 2025 season with high hopes, but things did not go their way. Injuries and poor results late in the year dashed the team's hopes and soured the mood.

One young defender has now shared just how tough the season really felt. Cornerback Terrion Arnold spoke with the Detroit Free Press on Wednesday and shared his stance.

“I mean, before I got hurt, I was getting in my groove, figuring things out,” the CB said. “I started playing my best ball, and then just dealing with that injury, nagging it. So I'm just excited to see where I'll be at when I have any injuries.”

Arnold had a difficult year as well. He dealt with shoulder injuries that forced him onto injured reserve. The issue started early in the season and affected his performance in multiple games.

Arnold also shared that he’s eager to get back on the field. He added that being away from the team was tough, but he still tried to support and lift his teammates from the sidelines.

“And the first time is gonna be like a really easy with a different outlook when you're looking at the game from an outside perspective,” Arnold added. “As far as watching the TV copy or watching the tape and not being out there. So it's definitely motivated me, and I'm definitely going.”

The Lions ended the 2025 season with a 9-8 record and finished last in the NFC North. After a strong start, the team lost six of its final ten games. That stretch pushed them out of playoff contention for the first time since 2022.

Even after the injury, Arnold recorded 23 solo tackles, one interception, and eight pass deflections.

As the Lions now look ahead, Arnold’s recovery will be key. However, new additions to the roster could also affect his role moving forward.

Rookie Addition Brings Fresh Competition for Terrion Arnold in Lions Secondary

As the Detroit Lions continue building their roster, the focus is now shifting to internal competition. The secondary, in particular, could see changes as new talent starts pushing for snaps.

Detroit added Keith Abney II in the fifth round to strengthen the cornerback group. While he is not a high pick, his college performance suggests he will be able to compete if he adjusts quickly.

At Arizona State, Abney recorded 36 tackles, one sack, two interceptions, and one forced fumble in 2025. His numbers show he can contribute in different roles on defense.

If he carries that form into training camp, it could give the coaching staff more options. The team will not rush decisions, but strong play often forces changes.

Arnold, meanwhile, is still working to lock in his spot. Across two seasons, he has allowed 77 catches on 133 targets, giving up a 57.9% completion rate.

His PFF grade of 52.6 ranks him 97th out of 114 players, showing there is still work to do.

With new competition entering the room, the situation could become more open. If Abney adjusts fast, the Lions may look at different ways to manage their secondary moving forward.

Read more at the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Anjali Thakur

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit