In the midst of the NFL offseason, trade rumors are swirling, and the Detroit Lions have found themselves at the center of a particularly intriguing scenario. ESPN's Mike Tannenbaum has proposed a blockbuster trade that would send Cleveland Browns' defensive superstar Myles Garrett to the Lions. In return, Detroit would give up two first-round picks and wide receiver Jameson Williams.
This hypothetical move is certainly eye-catching, and Tannenbaum suggests it could propel the Lions to Super Bowl contention. Pairing Garrett with Aidan Hutchinson on the defensive line, alongside Detroit's potent offense, would indeed make for a formidable team. For the Browns, acquiring draft capital and a young, explosive player like Williams could be a strategic step in a potential rebuild.
However, the financial implications of this trade are significant. Garrett's hefty contract would saddle the Lions with a $31.5 million guaranteed salary in 2026, along with a $23.6 million cap hit. The financial strain doesn't stop there, as future cap hits would balloon to $62 million in 2029 and $57.9 million in 2030, thanks to Cleveland's previous cap management strategies.
Myles Garrett, fresh off breaking the sack record in 2025, remains an elite defender at 31, and his addition would undoubtedly elevate the Lions' defense. But the cost-both in terms of draft capital and cap space-presents a daunting challenge.
Given the strategic approach of Lions' GM Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell, such a high-risk trade seems unlikely. They have emphasized building through strategic, incremental moves rather than swinging for the fences with blockbuster deals. The Lions are keen on finding a long-term partner for Hutchinson without sacrificing future flexibility.
While the idea of adding Garrett is tantalizing, the Lions must weigh the immediate boost against the long-term financial and roster implications. For now, this trade remains a fascinating "what if" in the ever-dynamic landscape of the NFL offseason.