The Detroit Lions missed out on Joey Porter Jr. after the Dallas Cowboys made a move for the cornerback. Interestingly, Detroit chose not to exceed Dallas’ price, with general manager Brad Holmes unwilling to overpay for the 26-year-old.

Meanwhile, Jeff Iafrate defended the Lions' approach on Woodward Sports’ Crunch Time. He argued that Dallas had paid too much for Porter, especially if the Cowboys are eventually unable to secure a contract with him:

“This specific trade in a vacuum, I am not upset. I think this was an overpay by the Cowboys, especially if they don't get a contract done.”

Iafrate said he was comfortable with Detroit missing out on Porter. Instead, he praised Holmes for refusing to increase the offer and potentially overpaying for the cornerback:

“I actually think Brad did the right thing by not overpaying and trying to offer more than what the Cowboys offered.”

For Iafrate, the real frustration was that Detroit was in this position, with its offseason moves leaving the Lions needing another defensive addition before the trade deadline.

The Lions face pressure to address their defensive needs

Jeff Iafrate believes the Lions cannot simply walk away after missing out on Joey Porter Jr.

He wants Detroit to remain active and address its defensive needs before the trade deadline:

“I'm not cool on not doing anything at the trade deadline. And I think the frustration should come from being in this position.”

That leaves the Lions with a decision to make before the deadline. Iafrate still expects Detroit to make a move to strengthen the defense after supporting Brad Holmes’ approach to the Porter trade.

Written by

Sayantan