Detroit needs help in the secondary after releasing veteran cornerback Cam Sutton. Trading up with the Dallas Cowboys to get Arnold should help the team fix some of its struggles.
The Lions allowed 34 completions thrown at least 20 yards downfield last season, which tied with the Houston Texans for second-most in the league.
Arnold’s selection marks the second time the Lions have taken a defensive back in the first round this century. The other was Jeff Okudah at No. 3 in 2020.
The Lions continued their Alabama pipeline under general manager Brad Holmes. This was the third straight year Detroit has taken a Crimson Tide player in the first round.
Arnold joins running back Jahmyr Gibbs in 2023 (12th overall), and wide receiver Jameson Williams (12th overall) in 2022.
Detroit also selected Alabama defensive back Brian Branch in the second round last year.
