The Detroit Lions offensive front looked shaky in their Week 1 clash against the Green Bay Packers. Although the group has since shown steady improvement, analysts believe it’s still an area where Detroit could seek reinforcements before the NFL trade deadline in November.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell suggested in his October 30 trade analysis that while the Lions’ biggest priorities remain on defense — particularly the pass rush and secondary — the front office might also consider shoring up the offensive line.
“I wonder if Detroit might pursue more depth up front, especially after Giovanni Manu struggled in Taylor Decker’s absence and then landed on injured reserve with a knee injury,” Barnwell wrote.
The tackle position continues to be a weak spot, yet reliable trade options are scarce. Chicago Bears lineman Braxton Jones is currently sidelined with a knee injury after being benched, and New York Giants tackle Evan Neal — the No. 7 pick in the 2022 draft — has yet to play this season, raising doubts about his long-term potential.
If Detroit can’t land a capable tackle, a move at guard could make sense. Rookie Tate Ratledge and Christian Mahogany have both graded well as run blockers but remain liabilities in pass protection, per Pro Football Focus.
One name that stands out is Joel Bitonio of the Cleveland Browns — a seven-time consecutive Pro Bowler known for his excellence in both run and pass blocking. With Bitonio nearing the end of his contract, he could become a realistic trade target if Cleveland decides to reset its roster.
Bitonio Nearing Contract Expiration, Still Playing at Elite Level
Barnwell noted that Bitonio was part of Adam Schefter’s list of potential trade candidates, which also included the Browns’ other interior linemen.
Cleveland could also consider moving Wyatt Teller, another top-tier guard whose deal expires after this season. Teller, 30, would provide Detroit with a longer-term solution, while Bitonio, 34, would represent more of a short-term upgrade for a team chasing a championship window.
Lions Expected to Be Active Buyers at the Deadline
The Lions are once again in contention for both the NFC North title and a Super Bowl run. With roughly $25.5 million in available salary-cap space, general manager Brad Holmes has the flexibility to make multiple roster improvements before the deadline.
Analysts expect Detroit to explore trades across several positions, particularly edge rusher, defensive back, and offensive line, as the team looks to reinforce its roster for another postseason push.
