The Los Angeles Rams stunned the NFL on Monday after completing a blockbuster trade for two-time, reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns.
The aggressive move reinforces the Rams’ win-now mentality as they continue pushing for another Super Bowl title with veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, before eventually transitioning to first-round pick Ty Simpson as their future franchise signal-caller.
Unsurprisingly, the deal immediately sparked reactions across the league, including from Detroit Lions fans who have long hoped their team would make a similar high-profile move—especially at edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson. The fact that Garrett landed with another contender only added to the frustration.
When asked about the trade during his Thursday press conference, Lions head coach Dan Campbell delivered a blunt and slightly sarcastic response.
“Yeah, I mean, good for them. They’ve won it now, right?” Campbell said.
He went on to acknowledge both Garrett and Jared Verse—who was part of the trade sent to Cleveland—but kept his comments brief, adding, “That was what (the Rams) felt they needed to do, and good for them, man.”
Campbell’s remarks reflected a typical NFL coaching mindset: respect the opponent, but remain focused on the task at hand. His comments also align with the Lions’ ongoing approach of prioritizing internal development and roster building over splashy acquisitions.
From a broader perspective, the Rams’ move adds even more pressure to an already competitive NFC. While Los Angeles has created significant buzz heading into the 2026 season, they still face a difficult path in a conference that includes reigning Super Bowl champions like the Seattle Seahawks and several other contenders.
Although Detroit does not face the Rams in the regular season, the possibility of a postseason matchup looms large. Many view the Garrett acquisition as a move that could influence NFC playoff seeding and potentially determine home-field advantage in a future championship clash.
If the Lions and Rams do meet in the NFC Championship Game, Detroit would be tasked with slowing down one of the league’s most dominant defensive fronts—especially if their offensive line is tested by elite pass rush talent. There is even speculation around a potential return of veteran defensive tackle Aaron Donald, which would further elevate the matchup.
Still, Campbell remains committed to the Lions’ long-term strategy, even as fans question whether Detroit should pursue similar blockbuster trades.
When asked what it would take for the Lions to enter the “high-end trade market,” Campbell responded simply: “I would tell you when that time happens.”
That stance reflects Detroit’s current philosophy under Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes—building through the draft, player development, and strategic extensions rather than major external splashes.
Even after selecting EDGE rusher Derrick Moore in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Lions continue to bet on internal growth over immediate star acquisitions. While Moore is not expected to match the instant impact of a player like Garrett, the organization believes patience could pay off in the long run.
For now, the Rams have made the biggest headline of the offseason—but as Campbell emphasized, championships are not decided in June.
