Lions GM calls Terrion Arnold situation ‘unfortunate’; eyes two extensions

ALLEN PARK, Mich. — Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes, speaking at his season-opening news conference, was asked about the organization’s decision to release cornerback Terrion Arnold, and if the Lions did enough this offseason to add insurance to the defensive backfield.

“I mean, look, the whole situation obviously was unfortunate. You know, the kid made a mistake. The more information we got throughout the process, that was the result of us doing what the best and right thing was for the club, which was to move forward. We appreciate everything that he did, but I think — with respect of the present, right now — (we’re going) to focus on the guys that we have here, and we like the guys that we have right now in that room.”

Arnold, arrested in June on kidnapping and armed robbery charges stemming from a February incident in Largo, Fla., officially signed with the Seattle Seahawks last week and was placed on the commissioner’s exempt list, as the NFL monitors his ongoing legal situation. The move prevents him from practicing or playing while the league investigates and considers potential punishment under the personal conduct policy, but he will be paid and can attend team meetings. He is due to appear in court Oct. 5.

The Lions released Arnold five days after his arrest, and hours after his June 29 bond hearing. As his legal situation unfolded, the team re-signed veteran cornerback Rock Ya-Sin in free agency, signed CB Roger McCreary and drafted nickel corner Keith Abney II. The Lions are also anticipating the return of 2024 second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr., who missed the entire 2025 season with a shoulder injury. Starting cornerback D.J. Reed is entering the second year of a three-year, $48 million contract signed in 2025.

Holmes reiterated his belief in the group Wednesday.

“We like the guys we have, we like what we’ve done, we feel good about what’s in the room right now,” Holmes said.

Holmes was also asked if the organization would still like to get extensions done with two members of Detroit’s 2023 draft class — tight end Sam LaPorta and safety Brian Branch — after the team extended running back Jahmyr Gibbs and linebacker Jack Campbell this summer.

“Those other two, we still want to keep those guys around. Those plans haven’t changed. There’s a couple of factors that we still got to sort through, but in terms of us wanting those guys around, absolutely. Hopefully, we can get that done.”

LaPorta is coming off a season cut short by surgery after he suffered a herniated disc in November. The Lions have been cautious with their Pro Bowl tight end this offseason, easing him back into practice. He suffered a hip injury in the final weeks of camp, but ie expected to be ready for the Sept. 13 opener vs. the Saints.

Branch, on the other hand, is coming off a torn Achilles and was placed on injured reserve, forcing him to miss the first four games of the season at minimum. Holmes said he didn’t want to put a timetable on his return, but said he’s progressing.

Both LaPorta and Branch are entering the final years of their rookie deals. The injuries to both players complicate discussions, but the Lions have completed plenty of deals in-season with core players.