Nickell Robey-Coleman, former USC star, signs with Detroit Lions

Nickell Robey-Coleman has put together a long, impressive NFL career since signing with the Buffalo Bills as an undrafted free-agent in 2013. On Monday, NFL Network’s Ian Rappaport reported the Detroit Lions were signing the former USC defensive back.

The #Lions are signing free agent CB Nickell Robey-Coleman, source said, after the former #Eagles CB worked out for them for today.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 9, 2021

Robey Coleman played last season for the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year contract. He didn’t live up to expectations finishing the season with just one pass defended and no interceptions in 15 games. He allowed 82.1% of the throws his direction to be completed for 533 yards and three touchdowns. He also missed a career-worst 12 tackles.

With Corn Elder sidelined with an injury and Quinton Dunbar out of camp due to personal reasons, the Lions are hoping Robey-Coleman can return to the success he had with the Rams and Bills. It’s clear Detroit is in need of the depth and the veteran has a chance for a comeback.

Nickell Robey-Coleman shines with Rams

Before his stint with the Eagles, Robey-Coleman was considered the Rams’ shutdown slot cornerback. The former Trojan appeared in 47 of 48 regular-season games as well as all four playoff games during his tenure with the franchise.

In his final year in Los Angeles, Robey-Coleman allowed just 62.9% of the passes thrown in his direction for 362 yards and one touchdown.

“He gives us a little depth and he gives us veteran presence,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell told the Detroit News. “We’re going to get a pretty good look at him out there, too. He gives us more flexibility as guy who has done it and played it and knows it.”

Robey-Coleman’s familiarity with several members of the current Detroit staff helps too. Aubrey Pleasant was his defensive backs coach with the Rams, while general manager Brad Holmes, Assistant general manager Ray Agnew and assistant head coach Deuce Staley have all worked on staffs where the new Lions’ cornerback played previously.