Mailbag from the Detroit Lions: Trade Deadline Edition

Analyzing potential Detroit Lions trade targets, their likelihood of being traded, and how much Lions GM Brad Holmes should be willing to pay.

The NFL trade deadline is less than a week away, and the Detroit Lions are considered apparent buyers for the first time in recent memory. With a 5-2 record but a crushing defeat at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens, the Lions are definitely in a position to make a run, but they might use a piece or two to make them a more complete club.

So, on this week’s Midweek Mailbag podcast, Erik Schlitt and I answered a slew of questions concerning the trade deadline, areas of need, players that would make sense, and if general manager Brad Holmes is likely to do anything this trade deadline season.

Here are some highlights from our talk.

Regarding the Lions’ chances of making a splash:

“My expectations are to keep your expectations very low,” Erik says. If they do sign someone, I believe it will be in the secondary because of the injury to Emmanuel Moseley. Again, I’m not sure if they’re looking for a young kid to come in and push for a starting spot. It’s probable they’ll search for a veteran out there to offer depth so you don’t have to rely on Will Harris in the event of an injury. That makes more sense, but I don’t see Brad Holmes willing to sell anything more than a mid-Day 3 pick.”

Why this is such a difficult trade deadline to predict:

“Look around the league right now,” Jeremy says. The NFL currently has 23 teams with three wins. Except for nine! How many of those clubs will be willing sellers right now when they’re in the thick of things?”

“Here’s another example: Washington.” There are wild reports that the Lions are about to pillage the Commanders. The commanders have a 3-4 record! They’re within a half-game away from making the playoffs! I don’t believe they’re ready to begin selling.”

Jeremy on Kendall Fuller as a potential trade partner: