The Detroit Lions experienced a major setback during their Week 6 blowout victory over the Dallas Cowboys when Defensive Player of the Year candidate Aidan Hutchinson broke his leg. In the wake of this season-changing injury, numerous potential trade targets for the Lions have emerged in NFL rumors.
Cleveland Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett, the current Defensive Player of the Year, has been frequently mentioned following the Amari Cooper trade. Cleveland appears open to trading some of its veteran players to acquire draft picks, especially with the need to reduce payroll due to Deshaun Watson’s contract.
The most sought-after trade target for the Lions is Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby. A Michigan native and second-team All-Pro, Crosby has previously shown interest in playing for Detroit and competing for a Super Bowl.
Despite the speculation around Garrett and Crosby, a deal for either is seen as improbable. Crosby has not requested a trade, and the Raiders are unwilling to part ways with him. Similarly, trading Garrett would suggest the Browns are entering a rebuild. However, other potential options remain.
Colton Pouncy of The Athletic has identified Browns edge rusher Za’Darius Smith, New Orleans Saints pass rusher Chase Young, and Tennessee Titans edge defender Harold Landry as possible trade targets for Detroit to fill the void left by Hutchinson.
Chase Young
Chase Young has recorded 10 quarterback hits, 3 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks in seven games. Although he’s shown flashes of strong performance this season, his effort has been criticized during his time with both the Washington Commanders and San Francisco 49ers. Signed to a one-year deal, his compatibility with the Detroit Lions’ culture remains uncertain, making him a questionable fit for the team.
Harold Landry
Harold Landry’s contract includes a $23.8 million cap hit in 2024 and $24.05 million in 2025 and 2026. Smith, a 32-year-old pass rusher, is considered a realistic trade option at the NFL deadline and could provide Detroit with a solid edge threat. Landry, under contract through 2026, is a potential long-term solution. He has the most sacks (four) of the three players mentioned this season, despite playing only five games, and is on pace for his third double-digit sack season.
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