In a bold move to bolster their defensive lineup, the Detroit Lions have reportedly inquired about the availability of Cleveland Browns’ star defensive end, Myles Garrett. Garrett, a three-time All-Pro and one of the NFL’s premier pass rushers, recently expressed his desire to compete for a championship, leading to speculation about his future with the Browns.
Myles Garrett’s Impact and Contract
Since being drafted first overall by the Browns in 2017, Garrett has consistently demonstrated elite performance on the field. He has recorded double-digit sacks in seven consecutive seasons, including a stellar 2024 campaign with 14 sacks and a career-best 22 tackles for loss. His dominance has earned him four first-team All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl appearances.
Garrett is currently under a five-year, $125 million contract signed in 2020, with cap hits of $19.7 million in 2025 and $20.4 million in 2026. Given his production, many analysts consider this a bargain. However, any team acquiring Garrett would likely need to negotiate an extension to secure his services beyond the current contract.
Detroit Lions’ Defensive Aspirations
The Lions have shown significant improvement in recent seasons, but their defense, particularly the pass rush, remains an area needing enhancement. The team boasts a young star in Aidan Hutchinson, who, despite suffering a leg injury in October 2024, has been a cornerstone of their defensive front. Pairing Hutchinson with a talent like Garrett could transform the Lions’ pass rush into one of the league’s most formidable units.
NFL insider Albert Breer expressed enthusiasm about this potential pairing, stating, “My favorite destination (for Garrett) would be Detroit… the idea of Myles Garrett opposite Aidan Hutchinson, like, that to me is really intriguing. Detroit’s in a championship window right now.”
Potential Trade Dynamics
Acquiring a player of Garrett’s caliber would require a substantial trade package. Browns General Manager Andrew Berry has previously indicated that even two first-round picks might not suffice for Garrett. However, Garrett’s recent trade request could influence the Browns’ stance, potentially making them more receptive to offers.
The Lions are well-positioned to make a competitive offer. They hold the No. 28 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and possess their first-round pick for 2026. Additionally, Detroit has approximately $46 million in cap space, sufficient to accommodate Garrett’s current contract. While trading for Garrett could present future cap challenges, the Lions’ current Super Bowl aspirations might justify such an aggressive move.
Strategic Implications for the Lions
Integrating Garrett into the Lions’ defense would have immediate and profound effects. His presence alongside Hutchinson would create a pass-rushing duo that could rival any in the NFL. Such a tandem would not only elevate the Lions’ defensive capabilities but also significantly enhance their prospects of contending for a Super Bowl title.
Moreover, Garrett’s experience and leadership could have a positive ripple effect on the Lions’ younger defensive players, fostering development and cohesion within the unit. The move would signal the Lions’ commitment to capitalizing on their current championship window, demonstrating to fans and the league alike their dedication to building a powerhouse team.
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions’ inquiry into Myles Garrett’s availability underscores their ambition to strengthen their defense and pursue a Super Bowl title. While challenges exist in terms of trade negotiations and salary cap considerations, the potential rewards of acquiring a player of Garrett’s stature could be transformative for the franchise. As the situation develops, the NFL community will be keenly observing how these dynamics unfold and what impact they may have on the competitive landscape of the league.
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