Should the Detroit Lions Trade for Myles Garrett or Seek Alternative Edge Rushers?

The Trade Buzz Around Myles Garrett

Right now, the hottest topic among Detroit Lions fans is the potential trade for Myles Garrett. Some supporters believe this move could propel the Lions to Super Bowl contention, while others worry about its long-term financial and roster implications. Trading for Garrett would undoubtedly strengthen Detroit’s pass rush, but it would also require multiple first-round picks, limiting future flexibility.

Would it be wiser for the Lions to explore more cost-effective alternatives? There are other edge rushers available who could make a significant impact without depleting the team’s draft capital. Here are three potential options that could help Detroit’s defense without the hefty price tag.

Kwity Paye – A Solid and Affordable Addition

Kwity Paye may not be a Defensive Player of the Year candidate like Garrett, but he is a reliable edge rusher who can generate consistent pressure. With 35 pressures and eight sacks per season, he would be an excellent addition to a defensive unit featuring Aidan Hutchinson and Za’Darius Smith. Rotating these players could create a dynamic pass-rushing force.

Proposed Trade:
Lions receive: Kwity Paye
Colts receive: 2025 third-round pick

The Colts might be willing to part with Paye due to financial constraints. Having exercised his fifth-year option, they now face the challenge of negotiating a contract extension. Given their current cap situation and pressing needs elsewhere, they could benefit from acquiring a future draft pick while freeing up salary space.

Boye Mafe – A Young, Promising Talent

Like Paye, Boye Mafe is an emerging edge rusher on a team facing financial difficulties. The Seattle Seahawks have one of the worst salary cap situations in the league, which will improve in 2026. They must decide whether to extend Mafe this offseason or preserve cap flexibility for future moves.

Mafe had a respectable 2024 season, recording 47 pressures and six sacks. However, he did not make the giant leap forward that Seahawks fans had hoped for. With Leonard Williams and Derrick Hall also in the mix, Seattle may view trading Mafe as a way to restructure their defense while gaining draft capital.

Proposed Trade:
Lions receive: Boye Mafe
Seahawks receive: 2025 fourth-round pick and 2025 sixth-round pick

For the Lions, this would be an economical way to bolster their defensive line while maintaining flexibility in future drafts.

Trey Hendrickson – A Proven Veteran Option

Trey Hendrickson is another intriguing trade target. The veteran pass rusher had an outstanding 2024 season with 18 sacks, proving he remains one of the NFL’s elite edge defenders. While the idea of the Cincinnati Bengals trading him might seem unlikely, financial considerations could force their hand. The Bengals are focused on retaining Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, both of whom will command massive contracts. To create the necessary cap space, Cincinnati might consider moving Hendrickson.

Proposed Trade:
Lions receive: Trey Hendrickson
Bengals receive: 2025 third-round pick and 2025 fourth-round pick

Although Bengals fans may expect a second-round pick for Hendrickson, his age (30) and the necessity for the Lions to extend his contract shortly after acquiring him make a third- and fourth-round pick a more reasonable price.

Conclusion – Which Move Makes the Most Sense?

Trading for Myles Garrett would instantly elevate the Lions’ defense but at a steep cost. If Detroit wants to maintain long-term roster flexibility, acquiring a more affordable edge rusher like Kwity Paye, Boye Mafe, or Trey Hendrickson could be the smarter play. Each of these players could provide a strong pass-rushing presence without mortgaging the team’s future draft capital.

As the offseason progresses, Detroit’s front office must weigh the risks and rewards carefully. Do they go all-in on Garrett for a Super Bowl push, or do they take a more strategic approach by targeting a cost-effective alternative? Time will tell, but one thing is certain—the Lions are poised to make a move that could define their championship aspirations.