Detroit Lions Eye Blockbuster Trade for Browns’ Star EDGE Myles Garrett
In what could be the most significant move of the NFL offseason, the Detroit Lions are reportedly considering a trade for Cleveland Browns’ star edge rusher Myles Garrett. According to Jeff Risdon of Lions Wire, the Lions should pursue a deal that would bring the future Hall of Famer to the Motor City, drastically improving their pass-rush and bolstering their Super Bowl aspirations.
Potential Trade Package
Risdon’s “mock offseason 2.0” outlines a proposed deal that would see the Lions send a substantial package to Cleveland in exchange for Garrett. The trade would include:
- Lions Receive:
- EDGE Myles Garrett
- 2025 5th-round pick (No. 165)
- 2026 2nd-round pick
- Browns Receive:
- 2025 1st-round pick (No. 28)
- 2025 3rd-round pick (No. 101)
- 2026 1st-round pick
- 2026 3rd-round pick
- DT Brodric Martin
Additionally, the deal would include a new contract extension for Garrett, projected at four years, $144.5 million ($36.13 million per year), with $94 million guaranteed. This contract would secure his presence in Detroit for the long term, making him one of the highest-paid defensive players in the league.
Why the Lions Should Make the Move
The Lions are coming off a season in which they made significant strides toward becoming a legitimate championship contender. Their defense, led by emerging star Aidan Hutchinson, showed promise but lacked a consistent game-changing presence opposite Hutchinson on the defensive line. Acquiring Garrett would immediately change that dynamic, giving the Lions one of the most fearsome pass-rush duos in the NFL.
“Myles Garrett is a game-changing pass rusher,” Risdon said in his analysis. “His ability to disrupt plays, force double teams, and create pressure at an elite level would take Detroit’s defense to new heights.”
Garrett’s Elite Performance
Garrett has long been regarded as one of the premier edge rushers in the NFL. Over the past three seasons (2022-2024), he has amassed 44 sacks and earned multiple All-Pro selections. In 2024 alone, he recorded:
- 14 sacks
- 83 total pressures
- 92.8 pass-rush grade (2nd best among all edge defenders)
These statistics highlight his ability to consistently impact games and wreak havoc in opposing backfields. Pairing him with Hutchinson would force offensive coordinators to rethink their blocking schemes, allowing Detroit’s defense to generate even more turnovers and sacks.
Challenges and Considerations
While the trade is intriguing, it is unclear whether Cleveland would be willing to part ways with their defensive cornerstone. The Browns have built their defense around Garrett, and while the proposed package is enticing, it remains to be seen if they would be open to negotiations.
Additionally, the Lions have historically been conservative in making blockbuster trades. ESPN’s Dan Graziano noted that such a move would be “a little out of character” for Detroit’s front office. However, with the team on the brink of contention, taking a swing at a superstar like Garrett could be the final piece of the puzzle.
Lions’ Cap Space and Financial Strategy
The proposed deal includes a massive four-year extension for Garrett, meaning the Lions must carefully manage their salary cap. Detroit’s front office has done an excellent job structuring contracts to maintain flexibility, but a contract of this size would require careful planning to ensure they can still retain key players in the future. The Lions would need to restructure existing deals or adjust upcoming contracts to make room for Garrett’s salary.
Impact on the NFC North Race
If the Lions pull off this trade, they would instantly become one of the most dominant teams in the NFC North. Detroit’s defensive line, featuring Garrett and Hutchinson, would create nightmares for rival quarterbacks in the division, including Kirk Cousins (Vikings), Justin Fields (Bears), and Jordan Love (Packers). A strengthened pass rush could be the key to Detroit finally securing a deep playoff run.
Final Thoughts
If the Lions can pull off this trade, they will immediately become one of the most dangerous defensive units in the league. The combination of Garrett and Hutchinson would rival any pass-rush duo in the NFL, and the move would signal Detroit’s commitment to chasing a championship. While there are hurdles to overcome, the potential reward makes this trade one of the most exciting storylines to watch this offseason.
Will the Lions take the leap and make the biggest splash of the 2025 offseason? Only time will tell.
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