Former Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold became the first corner taken in the 2024 NFL Draft when the Detroit Lions made him the No. 24 overall pick Thursday.
The Lions traded up from the No. 29 pick to select Arnold, who became the third player from the Crimson Tide to come off the board after offensive lineman JC Latham was picked No. 7 to the Tennessee Titans and linebacker Dallas Turner was selected No. 17 overall to the Minnesota Vikings. He became the sixth-highest drafted cornerback from Alabama after Mark Barron, who went No. 7 overall in 2012, Antonio Langham, Dee Milliner and Patrick Surtain II — all of whom were selected with the No. 9 overall pick — and Marlon Humphry, who was taken No. 16 overall in 2017.
Arnold got a big ovation as he walked on stage Thursday night, having been selected to Detriot, which is hosting the draft this year. He got high praise from his former coach Nick Saban and teammate Jalen Milroe after he finally heard his name called.
Last season, Arnold starred in Alabama’s secondary, racking up 63 total tackles, which ranked fourth on the team, and five interceptions. He also led the team in pass breakups with 12 and held opposing passers to a 50.7 NFL quarterback rating on passes thrown his way, according to Pro Football Focus. Arnold was named First-Team All-America and First-Team All-SEC, helping the Crimson Tide earn a conference title and a trip to the College Football Playoff.
In addition to his on-field contributions, Arnold was a beloved personality during his time in Tuscaloosa. He formed a bond with Nick Saban’s wife Mrs. Terry and delivered a heartfelt message to her at the NFL Draft Combine. Arnold also returned to Tuscaloosa for Alabama’s A-Day game in support of his former teammates Turner, Malachi Moore and Jalen Milroe as they added their prints to Alabama’s Walk of Champions.
On the field, Arnold’s athleticism and nose for the football make him an exciting prospect who should compete for game time from Day 1. He earned a 90 production score at the NFL Draft Combine, ranking first among cornerbacks. At 6-foot, 189 pounds he brings a twitchy and fast playstyle that should allow him to cover a variety of wideouts at the next level.
With the Lions, Arnold rejoins his former teammate in Alabama's secondary, Brian Branch. Branch was a second-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft and had a strong rookie season, racking up 74 total tackles, 13 pass deflections and a pick-6 in the Lions' 2023 season-opener against the Kansas City Chiefs.
