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It was announced on Monday afternoon that conerback Quinton Dunbar signed a one-year deal with the Detroit Lions. The former Gator was a receiver in his years with Florida, but upon signing as an undrafted free agent in the NFL, he was converted to defense and became a proficient cornerback.
Dunbar, a speedy and productive player in his college years, was a four-year starter with the Florida program. His best season by volume came in 2013, when, as a junior, he tallied 548 receiving yards on 40 catches. His senior year, although not the most impressive when viewed through the lens of counting stats, yielded the best yardage per catch in his college career.
Entering the league, Washington decided to give him a chance at proving his worth on the defensive side of the ball. Possessing elite size and acceleration for the position, Dunbar learned how to play cornerback as a professional. Of course, he was a long-term project for Washington, but it eventually paid off in 2019 when he was the second-highest PFF graded NFL cornerback.
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Then traded to the Seahawks after the season, his production took a steep tumble. He played in only six games and his efficiency numbers were nearly half what they were in Washington. Now a Lion, he’ll be looking to rebuild his value and potentially score a more lucrative contract after his year in Detroit.
As for as his potential role, he’ll be in competition with third-year pro Amani Oruwariye and fellow free agent signing Corn Elder for the starting outside and slot corner jobs. Even if Dunbar is the loser in that battle royale, he’ll still have a good shot to find a role on special teams. Detroit’s special teams unit was one of the best in the sport last season, but much of its core was on expiring deals and found jobs elsewhere.
Though he was troubled in Seattle, there’s a good chance that was linked to off-field issues and health trouble. A fresh start with a well-regarded coaching staff in Detroit may be just what the former Gator needs to get things back on track.
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