The Detroit Lions may have had the NFL’s sack leader last season if Aidan Hutchinson hadn’t suffered a broken leg in October. Hutchinson’s injury was a major setback for the team’s pass rush, and they struggled to regain their form, particularly in the divisional playoff game against the Washington Commanders. The lack of pressure on quarterback Jayden Daniels allowed him to carve up the Lions’ depleted secondary, contributing to a blowout loss.
Detroit tried to address their pass rush woes by acquiring Za’Darius Smith from the Cleveland Browns, but that move didn’t pan out. However, this offseason presents an opportunity for a much bigger trade to bring in another top-tier Browns defensive end: Myles Garrett. Adding Garrett to the mix would not only shore up the Lions’ defense in case Hutchinson faces further health issues, but it would also give them one of the most formidable edge-rushing duos in the NFL.
Myles Garrett, the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year and six-time All-Pro, officially requested a trade from Cleveland on February 3. The Lions offer Garrett a chance to compete for the championship he’s been seeking, while Garrett could provide the Lions with the defensive boost they need to elevate their Super Bowl hopes. As the Lions enter the third year of their most promising Super Bowl window in decades, this trade could be the missing piece.
However, acquiring a veteran like Garrett may require some tough decisions, including possibly moving on from some key players. The trade cost is expected to be steep—likely two first-round picks. The Lions could offer their next two first-rounders, their 2025 third-round compensatory pick, and quarterback Hendon Hooker, who hasn’t had a real opportunity in the NFL, in exchange for Garrett and a 2026 fourth-round pick. This deal exceeds the asking price Cleveland’s general manager, Andrew Berry, recently stated for Garrett, which was two first-rounders. Despite the Browns’ firm stance against trading Garrett, the added draft capital and Hooker’s potential might make the trade more appealing.
