The Detroit Lions are coming off a season that reignited belief in the Motor City. But if they want to take the next step in 2026-deep playoff football, maybe even a Super Bowl push-they’ve got some heavy lifting to do this offseason.
Three areas stand out as priority zones for reinforcements: edge rusher, offensive line, and the secondary. Injuries hit all three units hard in 2025, and depth alone won’t cut it anymore.
Detroit needs proven starters, and they may have to get creative to bring them in.
According to NFL analyst Alex Ballentine, the Lions could be eyeing three trade targets who’d bring immediate impact-and potentially reshape the trajectory of the franchise this season. Let’s break down each move and what it would mean for Detroit.
1. Maxx Crosby: The Dream Edge Partner for Hutchinson
Let’s start with the big swing: Maxx Crosby. The Michigan native is one of the most disruptive edge rushers in the league, and pairing him with Aidan Hutchinson would be a nightmare scenario for opposing quarterbacks. That duo could instantly become one of the most feared pass-rushing tandems in the NFL.
Now, the contract situation is tricky. Crosby’s deal with the Raiders isn’t cheap, and Las Vegas likely won’t let him go without a fight.
But there’s a scenario where Detroit could pull this off without mortgaging the future. If the Raiders are looking to shed salary or reset their roster, the Lions could gain some leverage-especially if they’re willing to restructure Crosby’s deal and move some money around to stay cap-compliant.
It wouldn’t be easy. Detroit would need to rework multiple contracts to make room, and it would likely limit their flexibility in free agency.
But for a player of Crosby’s caliber, it might be worth the financial gymnastics. Adding him to the mix would instantly elevate the defense and take pressure off Hutchinson, who’s already a star in the making.
2. Marlon Humphrey: A Veteran Fix for the Secondary
Next up is Marlon Humphrey, the kind of cornerback who could transform Detroit’s secondary overnight. The Lions struggled mightily in coverage last season, and Humphrey’s versatility-he can play inside or outside-would be a massive upgrade.
He’s coming off a 2025 campaign where he posted 13 passes defended, four interceptions, and two forced fumbles. That’s the kind of production Detroit desperately needs on the back end. And with the Ravens entering a new chapter under Jesse Minter, there’s reason to believe they might be willing to part ways with the veteran corner.
Humphrey’s cap hit for 2026 is just north of $26 million, which is steep, but not unmanageable-especially if Detroit can acquire him for mid-round draft picks rather than a premium selection. He’s also on an expiring deal, which gives the Lions flexibility depending on how the season unfolds.
This would be a smart, win-now move. Detroit doesn’t need to overhaul the secondary-they need a tone-setter, someone who can make plays and raise the standard. Humphrey fits that bill.
3. Cesar Ruiz: A Familiar Face for the Interior Line
The third name on the list is a little under the radar but could prove just as important: Cesar Ruiz. The former first-round pick out of New Orleans has been playing guard for the Saints, but he’s no stranger to the center position-he played it in college, and there’s a connection here that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Dan Campbell was on the Saints’ staff when Ruiz was drafted, so there’s familiarity. And with Graham Glasgow’s future in Detroit uncertain, Ruiz could be a more dynamic option to compete at center-especially if the team isn’t ready to hand the job to Tate Ratledge just yet.
Ruiz posted a strong 73.1 pass-blocking grade in 2025, which is more than respectable. The question is whether he’s comfortable sliding back to center after several years at guard. But even if he doesn’t win the starting job, Ruiz would give Detroit much-needed depth behind Christian Mahogany, who’s dealt with his share of injuries.
This is the kind of move that doesn’t make headlines but could pay big dividends. Offensive line play is about continuity and health, and Ruiz gives Detroit options at multiple spots.
The Bottom Line
If the Lions want to keep climbing, they need more than just internal development-they need reinforcements. Maxx Crosby would be a franchise-altering addition.
Marlon Humphrey could stabilize the secondary. Cesar Ruiz would shore up the interior line and give the team flexibility at center.
None of these moves come cheap. But with the NFC wide open and Detroit’s window clearly open, now is the time to be bold.
The foundation is there. A few smart, aggressive trades could be the difference between another solid season and something truly special in 2026.