Grading the Trade Idea: Lions Pursue a Young Edge Rusher in a Bold Move
The Detroit Lions are largely focused on re-signing key players and hoping for better health next season after enduring a tough injury-ridden year. With expectations of improvement, the team appears committed to maintaining its core while looking to address some roster gaps.
One position that remains a significant need is outside linebacker/edge rusher. While the draft class offers several promising options, adding a seasoned veteran would be a logical move for a team that is looking to contend now. The idea of a big trade for an edge rusher, though, seemed unlikely, especially with reports suggesting only a vague possibility of a trade for someone like Trey Hendrickson. Therefore, the Lions might need to dig a little deeper to find an affordable trade target for the position.
Evaluating the Proposed Trade: Lions Target a 2022 Draft Mate of Aidan Hutchinson
Mason Cameron from Pro Football Focus suggested that the Lions should consider a trade for New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux, a player who was drafted three spots after Aidan Hutchinson in 2022. Cameron highlighted that while Thibodeaux hasn’t lived up to the hype expected of a top-five pick, a change of scenery could be just what he needs to reach his potential. Thibodeaux had his best season in 2023, recording 11.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss in all 17 games, though he missed five games the previous season and three as a rookie, totaling 9.5 sacks in those years.
With a critical fifth-year option decision looming for the Giants by May 1, the possibility of an extension or trade could be in the cards. Cameron argued that the Lions, with their “win-now” mentality, could capitalize on this opportunity to trade for Thibodeaux, given their solid cap space and readiness to offer an extension if needed.
However, a few complications arise when considering this trade idea. First, the Giants likely have little interest in parting with a player they still view as a key piece of their defense. Also, Thibodeaux’s potential trade value could require at least a Day 2 draft pick, making the deal even less probable. Additionally, the Lions’ own upcoming contract extensions and roster considerations could complicate their ability to absorb Thibodeaux’s potential cost.
In conclusion, while the notion of acquiring Thibodeaux is intriguing, there are too many factors that make it a challenging and unlikely move for the Lions. The Giants are unlikely to trade him, and even if they did, the cost and timing may not align with Detroit’s needs.
