Live Report: Detroit Lions’ Bold Move to Super Bowl Glory – Myles Garrett Trade Potential and Salary Sacrifices
The Detroit Lions are fully embracing their “win-now” mentality, with their eyes set on securing that long-awaited Super Bowl title— and they’re looking to make a significant move to ensure that happens. A potential trade for Myles Garrett, the former Defensive Player of the Year, is now in the conversation as a game-changing option.
This trade could potentially form one of the most formidable defensive lines in the league, pairing Garrett alongside Aidan Hutchinson, DJ Reader, and Alim McNeill. Combine that with a solid linebacker core and a secondary that’s already proven its strength, and suddenly, the Lions’ defense becomes a top contender. Add to that the firepower of one of the most potent offenses in football, and this team could become an unstoppable force with a clear path to a championship.
However, making such a high-profile acquisition wouldn’t come without its costs. The team would likely have to make tough decisions—whether it’s cutting players or not re-signing others— all of which are inevitable in the salary cap era. After all, the success of the Lions’ drafts over the years has left them with a talented roster, but not everyone can stay.
There’s also the pressing matter of locking down Sam LaPorta, Jahmyr Gibbs, Jack Campbell, and Brian Branch to new deals. These key players will need to be retained, but with Garrett’s potential addition, there may not be enough room for everyone.
To make space for such a move, here’s a list of seven players who could face the possibility of being cut or not re-signed:
- Derrick Barnes
While Barnes has been a steady contributor for the Lions and has made strides in his development, the fact remains that he’ll be a free agent soon, requiring a new deal. While he’s not expected to command a massive salary, he will likely cost more than Trevor Nowaske, who stepped in for him this season. Since Nowaske is an RFA, he comes at a significantly cheaper price. - Carlton Davis
A fan favorite and someone the Lions would love to keep, Davis is likely to attract a substantial offer from another team. Meanwhile, Amik Robertson has shown great potential in 2024, especially when replacing Davis on the outside, and at a fraction of the cost. - Za’Darius Smith
Smith could become a cap casualty, whether or not the Lions acquire Garrett. With void years on his contract, he may cost Detroit over $10 million in 2025. While a reunion with Garrett would make sense, Smith may need to restructure his contract to help free up space. - Josh Paschal
Paschal has shown noticeable improvement and looks like a solid player for 2025, but with Garrett’s hefty contract and Hutchinson likely receiving a big deal soon, someone will have to be let go. Unfortunately, it looks like Paschal could be the odd man out. - Alex Anzalone
Like Paschal, Anzalone’s future with the team is secure for the short term, and the Lions appreciate his leadership. However, once Garrett arrives, the team may have to choose between Anzalone and Jack Campbell, who represents the younger future. Anzalone could potentially leave with a Super Bowl ring. - Malcolm Rodriguez
It’s a tough pill to swallow, but if the Lions make a move for Garrett, Rodriguez may find himself heading for free agency after the 2025 season. If it comes down to keeping Branch, LaPorta, Campbell, and Gibbs, Rodriguez would be the unfortunate casualty. - Kalif Raymond
While Raymond has been a solid contributor, he’s another player who could find himself out of the picture with Garrett on the cap. At 32, when his contract expires after the 2025 season, the Lions may not prioritize bringing him back.
In summary, while the Lions’ Super Bowl aspirations could get a major boost from a Myles Garrett trade, the team will have to make tough decisions to balance the books and keep their championship window open. The path to victory will be paved with sacrifices, but the Lions are ready to do what it takes to make a title run.
