The NFL offseason is in full swing, and teams like the Detroit Lions are exploring every avenue to bolster their roster for the 2025 season.
One of the key strategies the Lions could employ is tapping into the trade market. While Detroit doesn’t need to make moves given the solid state of their roster, the team’s depth could certainly draw attention from other teams looking to strengthen their lineups.
As such, general manager Brad Holmes could soon be fielding enticing offers for players further down the depth chart. Here’s a look at five players who could draw interest in trade talks during the upcoming draft.
QB Hendon Hooker
The name Hendon Hooker has been making waves early this offseason. After a standout college career, where he was initially projected as a first-round pick, Hooker’s stock took a hit when he tore his ACL in his senior season. Despite this setback, Hooker’s potential remains undeniable.
In his two seasons with the Lions, he’s seen limited action, mainly in blowout scenarios. With Jared Goff set to begin a four-year contract extension, Hooker might appeal to teams in need of a young quarterback, especially one who has the opportunity to develop on a rookie deal.
One team that could be particularly interested is the New York Jets, led by former Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. The Jets are parting ways with veteran Aaron Rodgers, and Hooker could be a tempting option for them to bring in, allowing him the chance to showcase his skills.
Of course, Hooker’s unproven nature might deter some teams, but if no trade materializes, the Lions are likely content keeping him as a high-quality backup to Goff.
DE Josh Paschal
Josh Paschal presents an interesting case for the Lions. Though he’s been productive in some areas during his first three seasons, his future in Detroit is uncertain, especially as he enters the final year of his rookie deal.
Paschal has proven to be a solid run-stopper but has yet to shine as a pass-rusher. If a team is looking for a reliable run-stuffing defensive end, Paschal could be a perfect fit. If the Lions aren’t ready to commit to an extension and another team makes an enticing offer, they could be tempted to trade him.
The defensive end position is one of the most coveted spots in football, and Paschal’s talents could be just what another team needs, particularly if they can’t address the position in free agency.
LB Malcolm Rodriguez
Like Paschal, Malcolm Rodriguez is entering the final year of his rookie deal. However, his situation is slightly more complicated, as the Lions boast a deep pool of linebackers that could limit his playing time.
Rodriguez is well-regarded by new defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, but with several viable options at linebacker, the path to a significant role in Detroit could be challenging. If the Lions re-sign Derrick Barnes, Rodriguez may find himself in a more crowded field.
If another team sees potential in Rodriguez and offers him a starting role, he could become expendable. Regardless, expect Rodriguez to continue competing for playing time in Detroit, but the allure of a starting spot elsewhere might make a trade attractive.
DE Za’Darius Smith
Za’Darius Smith came to the Lions via trade last season and still has one year left on his contract. With the team facing some potential salary cap benefits from moving on from him, his future with the Lions remains uncertain heading into 2025.
While cutting him is one option, the Lions could also look to move him for draft capital. According to OverTheCap, a pre-June 1 trade could save the team $5.7 million against the cap without incurring dead money.
Smith has expressed a desire to remain with the Lions, hoping to win a Super Bowl with the team. However, if a compelling offer comes through, Brad Holmes could find it difficult to resist.
OL Colby Sorsdal
After making 16 appearances and three starts as a rookie, Colby Sorsdal took a step back in 2024, appearing in just one game. Competing with players like Michael Niese and Christian Mahogany for backup roles, Sorsdal’s status is now up in the air.
The team initially saw Sorsdal as a versatile offensive lineman capable of playing both guard and tackle. However, the plan didn’t quite come to fruition, and his role remained limited. With Mahogany returning and Gio Manu expected to take a step forward in his second season, Sorsdal could find himself as a roster casualty.
Though his value may not be high, a team looking to add youthful offensive line depth could take a shot on the William & Mary product, especially if they believe he can develop in a new environment.
Stay tuned as Brad Holmes and the Detroit Lions navigate the offseason, as these potential trade scenarios could shape their 2025 season.
