Dallas, TX
Cowboys corner market with not 1, not 2, but 3 of NFL’s top slot defenders
(AP Photo/Ron Jenkins)
[In 2021] as a slot defender, Lewis allowed 41 catches on 61 targets for 471 yards, 225 yards after the catch, one touchdown, three interceptions, and an opponent passer rating of 74.5.
Lewis was at his most effective when he was targeted the most — he was targeted 10 times against the Buccaneers in Week 1, and 13 times against the Giants in Week 15. He had interceptions in each game, and gave up just 10 receptions in the two games.
Lewis suffered a Lisfranc foot injury in late October, ending his 2022 campaign and opening the door for Bland to enter. Still not yet fully recovered, Bland’s ascension has paved the way for conversation of whether or not Lewis will become trade bait once fully healthy.
Ever since escaping Kris Richard’s doghouse several years back, Lewis has been phenomenal in his roles not just in coverage, but blitzing off the edge as well. He’s a strong tackler despite his size limitation and if he is on the roster in 2023 will only further enhance what might be the league’s best secondary.