Despite having a career year with the Chiefs, Mike Hughes has had to settle for a modest one-year deal. According to Doug Kyed of Pro Football Focus, the cornerback is signing with the Lions. The one-year pact is worth $3.5M.
After being traded from Minnesota last May, Hughes suited up for all 17 games with Kansas City – the first time in his four-year career he was available for a full campaign. He notched one interception, adding six pass breakups and four forced fumbles.
2021 was also Hughes’ best season with regards to coverage statistics. He allowed a completion percentage under 60% for the first time and surrendered an average of seven yards per target. All of that added up to a PFF grade of 72.9, also a career mark.
Given his age (25), 2021 production and first-round pedigree, Hughes was expected to be “popular” in free agency. Remaining with the Chiefs was also on the table. While Hughes managed to have a career season, his extensive injury history probably contributed to the short-term deal. A torn ACL followed by multiple neck issues limited him to a total of 24 games played across three seasons with the Vikings.
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