In the aftermath of Myles Garrett’s trade request from the Cleveland Browns this week, one team that has been at the center of trade rumors is the Detroit Lions, a potential destination for the superstar edge rusher.
However, making a deal for Garrett won’t come easy. First, the Browns would have to be willing to trade him, and reports indicate that they are hesitant to do so. Additionally, there will likely be intense competition for Garrett, which could spark a bidding war among interested teams.
Garrett’s public request to leave Cleveland could make it hard for the Browns to hold onto him. It’s increasingly looking like Cleveland may have no choice but to honor his demand unless something drastic changes Garrett’s mindset. The former No. 1 overall pick has expressed his desire to be part of a contender, saying, “I feel like the window for us as athletes is only so broad and only continues to close as years go by with anything being able to happen on that field from day to day. I want to be able to go out there and compete at the highest levels, day in and day out, and play for championships.”
As for what it would take to acquire Garrett, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports that sources suggest the price tag could start at a pair of first-round picks or possibly a first-round pick along with a high-level Day 2 pick. Fowler quoted insiders saying, “People I’ve talked to about Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett’s trade market agree that his immense talent should garner at least two quality picks in return – either two first-rounders, or a first-rounder and a high-level Day 2 pick package.”
Fowler added, “They also agree the list of potential suitors would be condensed due to his desire to join a contender after requesting a trade,” noting that several teams have indicated they will reach out to Cleveland, even though they expect the Browns to turn down any offer. Cleveland has reportedly made it clear they have no intention of trading Garrett.
The Lions, however, are an intriguing fit for Garrett. They are exactly the type of Super Bowl contender Garrett wants to play for, and his presence would significantly bolster Detroit’s defense, making them a more formidable team in their championship chase.
Detroit does have a need for more depth at the edge position, especially with questions about long-term solutions opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Although Za’Darius Smith is under contract through 2025, he’s 32 and could be gone after next season.
A trade for Garrett could be just the bold move Detroit needs to position themselves for a Super Bowl run. With both first- and second-round picks in 2025 and 2026, the Lions have the draft capital to make a deal happen. However, moving both 2025 first-round picks would leave Detroit thin on draft assets for this year, but giving up those picks might be a small price to pay for a game-changing player like Garrett, who could greatly improve their chances of securing a Super Bowl. With a strong roster already in place, losing some future draft picks might not be as painful for the Lions.
