We’re still processing the jaw-dropping trade idea proposed by former Michigan receiver Braylon Edwards, who suggested the Detroit Lions trade Aidan Hutchinson to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for Myles Garrett.
This wild suggestion came after a brief chat about the players deemed “untouchable” by the Lions—a topic that sparked our curiosity about who would truly be off-limits. So, we put together a list of players the Lions absolutely wouldn’t consider trading.
Let’s be clear: this list isn’t long. While we all have favorite players we’re attached to, it’s important to stay grounded. We can’t say with certainty that these players are completely off-limits in the right trade scenario. But here’s the group that is firmly untouchable:
Penei Sewell
This guy’s not going anywhere. Sewell is the cornerstone of the Lions’ current success—he was the first foundational piece they built around. Sewell is not only one of the top tackles in the game, but he’s one of the league’s best overall players. No trade offer would be big enough to make them part ways with him.
Amon-Ra St. Brown
When you think of grit and what the Lions’ culture is all about, Amon-Ra St. Brown is the first name that comes to mind. This guy plays through injuries, refuses to come off the field, and embodies everything this team represents. He’s not just a top receiver; he’s the heart and soul of this team’s culture.
Jahmyr Gibbs
Gibbs is absolutely electric. While it’s often said that running backs are easy to find, Gibbs is in a different class. He can break off a massive run at any moment and has the potential to rack up 20+ touchdowns in a season. His presence on offense gives the Lions the flexibility to execute their game plan any way they want.
Frank Ragnow
Ragnow is the anchor of the Lions’ offensive line, a veteran leader that Dan Campbell refers to as part of the “old guard.” He’s arguably the best center in the NFL, and there’s no pulling him off the field unless it’s absolutely necessary. A true Dan Campbell guy to the core.
Jake Bates
I know it might seem odd to have a kicker on this list, but finding a reliable kicker is tough, especially in today’s NFL. The Lions know this firsthand—before Jake Bates arrived, they struggled in the kicking game. There’s no chance they want to return to that uncertainty.
Aidan Hutchinson
Aidan Hutchinson is the backbone of the Lions’ defense. If not for a broken leg while sacking Dak Prescott, Hutchinson could be on track for the Defensive Player of the Year award and possibly playing in Sunday’s game. His importance to this team cannot be overstated.
Kerby Joseph
The All-Pro safety isn’t just having a good year by accident. His football IQ is off the charts—Kerby Joseph is always in the right place at the right time, and you can see him getting better each game. Smart, reliable players like Joseph are a rare find, and the Lions are wise to hang onto him.
And that wraps up the list. Now, just because a player isn’t on here doesn’t mean they’d never be traded. It simply means that if an offer came in that was too good to pass up, the Lions might entertain it. But the players listed? They’re untouchable. Any offers for them would likely be met with a swift “no” and possibly a dial tone.
