As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the Detroit Lions are once again being linked to potential defensive additions — particularly at edge rusher, a position that has remained a recurring concern.
Last season, Detroit made a splash at the deadline by acquiring Za’Darius Smith, bolstering the defensive line after Aidan Hutchinson went down with a season-ending injury. This year, the Lions may look to make another strategic move, with analysts predicting a deal that could bring Anfernee Jennings from the New England Patriots to the Motor City.
Jennings Could Be a Smart, Low-Cost Addition
According to Mike Payton of AtoZ Sports, Detroit remains a logical landing spot for Jennings, who has been on the team’s radar for some time. Earlier this year, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell suggested that the Lions could acquire Jennings and a seventh-round pick from New England in exchange for a sixth-round selection.
“Jennings is owed $2.5 million in 2025, with roughly half of that guaranteed,” Barnwell wrote. “He doesn’t seem to fit into Mike Vrabel’s long-term vision in New England, but his style of play makes sense for a team like Detroit, which could use additional edge depth.”
Despite starting 16 games for the Patriots in 2024, Jennings has seen his role diminish significantly this season. Through five games, he has yet to start and has recorded just one sack across 79 defensive snaps. Last year, by contrast, he played 831 snaps and was one of New England’s more reliable defensive contributors.
“Vrabel hasn’t really found a use for Jennings this season,” Payton noted. “He’s still a capable player, but with the Patriots changing their defensive approach, Jennings doesn’t appear to fit their current system.”
Payton described the 27-year-old linebacker as a “low-cost investment”, noting that his contract makes him financially appealing — with about $5 million total owed through 2026.
Could Detroit Aim Even Higher?
While Jennings would add solid rotational depth, some insiders believe Detroit could make a more aggressive push for a proven difference-maker. ESPN’s Seth Walder recently floated the idea of targeting Miami Dolphins edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, one of the top names rumored to be available.
“Even with Al-Quadin Muhammad improving, the Lions could still use a high-level No. 2 edge rusher,” Walder wrote. “Phillips makes sense — he’s effective both rushing the passer and stopping the run, ranking sixth in run stop win rate among edge defenders and posting a 17.1% pass rush win rate.”
Beyond the pass rush, the Lions’ secondary also remains an area of interest. Injuries have tested Detroit’s depth at defensive back, and while several players are nearing a return, adding another experienced piece could provide much-needed stability for Dan Campbell’s defense as the team gears up for a postseason push.
With the trade deadline drawing near, all eyes will be on GM Brad Holmes to see if Detroit opts for a depth move like Jennings — or swings big for a star-caliber pass rusher to strengthen their defensive front for the stretch run.
