The Detroit Lions have informed cornerback Desmond Trufant that he will be released at the start of the league year, which begins March 17, a source told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Trufant signed a two-year, $ 20 million deal with the Lions before the 2020 season to be the replacement for Darius Slay’s team, which was traded to Philadelphia. Detroit still owes $ 3.5 million guaranteed for 2021.
It never worked out at all for Trufant, who started Week 1, as he spent most of the season with hamstring problems that limited him to six games, one interception and four assists. He also ended up in a battle in stoppage time with first-round debutant Jeff Okudah and sophomore professional Amani Oruwariye for places away. Trufant’s role as the No. 1 corner was in doubt during the 2021 season.
With Oruwariye and Okudah hired for the foreseeable future and being much younger, this made the 30-year-old Truffle expendable. He planned to earn $ 9.5 million in cash by 2021 and reach a $ 12.5 million limit.
Upon releasing it, the Lions saved $ 3 million in maximum space and, if designated as a cut after June 1, $ 6.5 million. This year it will charge a $ 6 million limit for the Lions, according to Roster Management System.
Trufant’s release helps the Lions release the limit after Matthew Stafford’s change to Jared Goff.
On Tuesday, coach Dan Campbell said the Lions needed to compete in the corner position.
“We need competition in this area. We need depth in the areas,” Campbell said. “We need competition. I mean, for example, we have two young cornerbacks, man, you still want competition. Do you want guys who have to compete? [with] that they are able to push them or are pushing for that starting position. I mean, it’s simple. It makes you better. “
Trufant, the former Atlanta first-round pick in 2013, won the Pro Bowl in 2015 and has started the 103 games he has played in his career, making 14 interceptions with 83 assists, 3 holes and 7 interceptions. fumble recoveries. He played all but last season with the Falcons.