'Underrated' Lions player proves why defense is set up for 2025 success

The Detroit Lions have become one of the NFL's best stories lately, and as a result, there are very few players who would qualify as underrated given everyone

That still hasn't stopped some contributors from flying under the radar. Quitely, one of the best moves the Lions have made has been bringing in cornerback Amik Robertson. The veteran has helped transform the back end of Detroit's defense into a gritty, versatile group.

Entering the 2025 season, however, Robertson is still being undervalued by PFF and writer Jonathon Macri. He was revealed to be the choice as the most underrated player in Detroit for 2025.

"On a defense with two All-Pro safeties, Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch, Robertson has provided a boost to the team’s run defense, earning an 89.7 PFF run-defense grade, which ranked sixth at the position in 2024."

"Robertson’s role as the team’s primary nickel cornerback allows him to provide support closer to the box and serve as a key run defender, so his being able to step up in that role is key, as he allows Branch to play a more typical safety role."

Robertson can do a bit of everything, which is why the divisional playoff round loss to the Washington Commanders may have been expedited when he left the game with a broken arm. Not only is Robertson solid himself, but his role allows for the success of his teammates as Macri points out.

Amik Robertson's presence means Detroit Lions set up for success

Before Brad Holmes took over, the Lions had endured a depth problem defensively, and specifically in the backfield. All of a sudden, that's not an issue. If a vital player like Robertson can be seen as underrated, that points to an elite defense with many contributors.

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Under new defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, Robertson could be expected to continue to shine. Sheppard spoke recently about his unique joy in watching underrated talents blossom within a defense.

"I'm a little different. I'm elated to have (Aiden Hutchinson), but I (like to) look and see what we can do with a Dan Jackson. How much better can this player be in our system? A Mitchell Agude. Ahmed (Hassanein), who is an absolute joy to be around. He's never had a bad day and doesn't know what slow down means, but he'll learn. That's the joy I get out of coaching. Developing. Bringing people along, catching people up to the speed of a Hutchinson and Jack Campbell so we're all moving at one accord."

With this in mind, it's clear Robertson is going to be a valuable piece in Detroit for the foreseeable future. Sheppard is going to love that he is being underrated heading into 2025, and will continue to tap into his obvious game-changing potential within Detroit's defense.

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