The Detroit Lions have a largely excellent roster that has helped propel them to two consecutive NFC North titles and set themselves up for continual deep runs in the postseason.
While that hasn't resulted in the ultimate goal of hoisting a Lombardi Trophy, the Lions are clearly in contention each year. That said, they're one or two big steps away from truly contending.
One potential option to closing that frustrating gap could be making a big trade ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft here in a couple of weeks. This new projected deal sees them moving up with the Carolina Panthers to No. 8 to snag either a perfect partner to Aidan Hutchinson or an offensive weapon to keep supporting an already-stellar playmaking cast.
Lions Move Into Top 10 of 2025 NFL Draft in Unexpected Projected Trade
In a blockbuster of a projected trade, the Lions move up to No. 8 in exchange for their 2025 and 2026 first-round picks alongside a 2025 third-rounder.
That's admittedly a lot to pay, yet it could give Detroit general manager Brad Holmes the opportunity to acquire a true running mate for Hutchinson. If someone like Jalon Walker or Mykel Wililams were available, perhaps the Lions' defensive front could mimic that of the Philadelphia Eagles that just won the Super Bowl.
Championships are what w'ere ultimately gunning for, and it's become obvious not only from the Eagles but also from the Kansas City Chiefs that a clear way to gain an advantage on the competition is to build on the interior.
Detroit is a textbook case of that thanks to the offensive line dominance highlighted by Frank Ragnow's breakout, yet there are obvious gaps on the defensive end of that spectrum. By moving up for an elite pass-rushing force, the Lions can be ahead of the game on both sides of the ball. After Commanders signal caller Jayden Daniels carved them up in the biggest contest of the year, that needs to be an area of focus.
This trade could fix a problem and while it takes risk, some risks are worth making if you want to win it all in the end.