Former Jets cornerback Darryl Roberts has found a new home.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Roberts and the Detroit Lions have agreed to terms on a one-year deal. Roberts was released by the Jets about two weeks ago, which cleared $6 million in cap space for New York.
Roberts spent four seasons with Gang Green after originally being drafted by the Patriots in the seventh round of the 2015 NFL Draft out of Marshall. He got limited time as a starter in 2016 and 2017 before starting a career-high 10 games in 2018. Roberts did so again in 2019, beginning the year as the second cornerback behind Trumaine Johnson. However, both struggled, failed to stay healthy and were cut this offseason.
In 56 career games with the Jets, Roberts recorded 155 total tackles, 27 pass breakups and three interceptions.
The biggest issue with Roberts in his four years was his ball awareness. Most of the time, Roberts was there to make a play on the ball, but couldn’t locate it. That allowed the receiver to make the catch and possibly break away for extra yardage.
As for the Jets cornerback situation, their current plan is to go with Pierre Desir at the No. 1 spot followed by Bless Austin at No. 2. The Jets could still go out and grab another cornerback in free agency to play behind Desir, though. There’s also always the draft.
Meanwhile, Brian Poole will lock down the slot for the second straight season.