The Detroit Lions are signing veteran cornerback Nickell Robey-Coleman, per the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

The Lions’ secondary has had impressive showings since the start of training camp. According to players, Aaron Glenn is an excellent teacher. And Aubrey Pleasant fits that same bill. Unfortunately, they’ve faced some recent bad luck.

Cornerback Corn Elder left practice Friday with a leg injury. And it caused him to miss Saturday’s practice at Ford Field. Additionally, it’s almost been a week since Quinton Dunbar has practiced. Head coach Dan Campbell addressed it Monday morning, stating Dunbar is still out with a personal issue. Campbell also voiced his support for Dunbar on the team’s behalf.

Because of that, the Lions inking Robey-Coleman to a deal was necessary.

Detroit Lions sign Nickell Robey-Coleman — Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) scrambles away from Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Nickell Robey-Coleman (31) during the first quarter Dec. 20, 2020. Eagles Vs Cardinals

Robey-Coleman arrives in Detroit, already knowing a few faces in the building. He was with the Buffalo Bills during offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn’s two years there (2015 & 2016). His next stop was the LA Rams, where he played three seasons with Jared Goff and Michael Brockers. Additionally, Aubrey Pleasant coached him during that time. And last season, he played with the Philadelphia Eagles, where Duce Staley was the assistant head coach.

So Nickell Robey-Coleman won’t be a stranger in the locker room. And the one great thing about him is his availability. Since entering the NFL (2013), he’s only missed two games. With the first preseason game looming, the Lions needed depth. Landing Robey-Coleman was also a smart move. He’s a veteran voice in a young locker room. His experience could be invaluable.

Also, as mentioned, Aubrey Pleasant coached him for several seasons with the Rams. During that time, Pleasant was the Rams’ cornerbacks coach. With Robey-Coleman now in Detroit, Pleasant has a player that knows his coaching. He can fill a void until Dunbar’s return. Even after, he could find a home in Detroit.

The Detroit Lions open their preseason this Friday as they face the Buffalo Bills at 7 p.m. at Ford Field.

Follow Kory Woods on Twitter at KoryEWoods.