Detroit Lions sign Cassius Vaughn
Cassius Vaughn (32) during the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
The Detroit Lions have added some cornerback depth today, as Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports that the Lions have signed former Indianapolis Colts No. 3 corner Cassius Vaughn to a one-year deal today. Vaughn was never going to receive more than a one-year pact, as he struggled last season when replacing the injured Greg Toler (nagging groin injury) as the team’s CB2 across from star Vontae Davis.
Vaughn visited the Lions earlier today, and the fifth-year pro is just 26 and figures to be the team’s fourth cornerback on the roster. It will be interesting to see if the Lions decide to bring back Rashean Mathis, and it will also be interesting to see if he plays over Bill Bentley. At this point in time, Chris Houston and Darius Slay are locked in as the starters until further notice.
One thing that’s always stood out about Vaughn is his speed, but there’s little else to praise. He lacks concentration, displays below-average technique, and is burned surprisingly often for a player with his wheels. Vaughn should bring special teams value to the Lions as a kick-off returner, but his roster spot won’t be guaranteed going into training camp. He has some ball skills with 15 passes defended and four interceptions combined in the past two seasons, so he has that going for him as well (it isn’t much, though).