The Detroit Lions are finally looking like an NFC juggernaut in 2026. Detroit is on a three-game winning streak after handing Minnesota their first loss of the season in Week 8. Now the Lions are in control of their own destiny at 5-2 and right in the thick of the NFC North division race. But not everything is going in Detroit's favor so far this season.
Unfortunately, the defense is still a big issue in Detroit despite a handful of good performances.
The Lions lost Jack Campbell to a scary injury last week and there's no telling when he'll be able to return. On top of that, DJ Reed and DJ Wonnum both picked up injuries last week and have not practiced this week. If there's any good news, Brian Branch practiced on Thursday and Kerby Joseph was limited for two days in a row.
The headline here is that defensive talent is still a problem for the Lions. Now that the team is looking competitive, it could make sense for GM Brad Holmes to hunt for some defensive players ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
Should Detroit make a big move to add more players? Or should they take a more cautious approach to the trade deadline?
There is one big mistake that the Lions need to avoid making at the trade deadline no matter what.
Detroit cannot sacrifice their future to bring in a star at the trade deadline
It may be tempting for the Lions to make a big move at the deadline. But they need to avoid sending away significant draft capital that could impact the organization's future.
One important factor here is Detroit's salary cap situation. They do have some cap space next season with $62.08 million currently available. That does not account for potential extensions for Branch and Sam LaPorta, who are both on expiring contracts.
Fortunately, the Lions are projected to have 10 picks in the 2027 NFL Draft and their full complement of picks in future drafts. That puts them in a strong position where they could swing one or two trades while still leaving enough picks to solidify their future. However, they'll need to be bargain trades instead of blockbuster deals for star players.
The reality is that star players often cost a lot and come with massive contracts. So adding another talented player like that doesn't make a lot of sense for Detroit.
If the Lions can find some bargain bin players to patch up the defense, they should be just fine.
Ultimately, Detroit should not be willing to give up more than a third-round pick in any trade deadline move.
Which players could be trade targets for the Lions?
The Lions could actually do some last-minute scouting on a few Dolphins players in Week 9.
Miami is one team that should feel comfortable selling players as they are in the middle of a complete rebuild. Their young talent may not be for sale, but they have plenty of veterans who could give the Lions a boost.
Jordyn Brooks is arguably the tempting option for Detroit. The Lions may need linebacker help with Campbell sidelined, and Brooks is a tackling machine. However, he is under contract for multiple seasons so the Lions would need to really fall in love with him to bring him in.
Another option is cornerback JuJu Brents. The fourth-year cornerback is on the final year of his rookie contract. That's a good thing for Detroit, as it gives them the flexibility to only bring him on as a one-year patch. But if he proves himself to the coaching staff, Detroit could sign him to an extension. Perhaps more importantly, it means that Brents would likely be a cheap acquisition.
Other players Lions fans should keep an eye on include Chargers cornerback Donte Jackson and Commanders cornerback Mike Sainristil.