The Detroit Lions Weigh Their Options as Myles Garrett Trade Talks Intensify

Cleveland Browns Set a High Price for Myles Garrett

As trade rumors swirl around Cleveland Browns superstar Myles Garrett, NFL teams—including the Detroit Lions—are taking note. However, acquiring the All-Pro defensive end won’t come cheap. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Browns are holding firm on their asking price, expecting nothing less than multiple premium draft picks in any potential deal.

“People I’ve talked to about Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett’s trade market agree that his immense talent should garner at least two quality picks in return—either two first-rounders or a first-rounder and a high-level Day 2 pick package,” Fowler reported.

The Browns’ stance makes it clear: they are in no rush to move Garrett unless they receive an offer too good to refuse.

Limited Suitors: Garrett Wants to Join a Contender

One factor that could impact Garrett’s trade market is his reported desire to join a legitimate Super Bowl contender. Given his elite talent, several teams would love to acquire him, but not every franchise fits his criteria.

“The list of potential suitors would be condensed due to his desire to join a contender after requesting a trade,” Fowler explained.

This condition narrows the pool of interested teams significantly, making the Lions an intriguing option. After finishing the 2024 season with a 15-2 record and coming close to a Super Bowl appearance, Detroit fits the mold of a team that could appeal to Garrett. However, the Lions will have to assess whether his price tag is worth the investment.

The Trade Market Heats Up for Elite Pass Rushers

Garrett isn’t the only dominant defensive end who could be on the move this offseason. Other star edge rushers, such as Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders and Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals, have also been linked to trade discussions.

“As one league source predicts, ‘Maxx, Myles, and Trey will all be tied up in trade talks,'” Fowler noted. “The expectation is Crosby and Hendrickson will get strong trade interest if their respective teams decide to entertain calls.”

With multiple star pass rushers potentially available, teams looking to upgrade their defensive lines must act quickly before the market shifts.

The Lions’ Dilemma: Garrett or Hutchinson?

Detroit’s front office faces a major decision when it comes to their pass-rushing future. While Garrett is an elite talent, the team already has a rising star in Aidan Hutchinson, who is nearing eligibility for a long-term contract extension. Before making a blockbuster trade, the Lions may want to evaluate how much Hutchinson will command financially.

With the market for elite pass rushers exceeding $35 million per year, Detroit must decide whether to allocate those resources toward Hutchinson or pursue a proven veteran like Garrett. Balancing financial flexibility with championship aspirations will be crucial in determining their next move.

Will Detroit Make a Move?

While the Browns remain adamant that they won’t trade Garrett, the NFL offseason is full of surprises. If a team—perhaps the Lions—offers the right combination of draft capital and financial incentives, Cleveland may be forced to reconsider.

Detroit is already a legitimate contender, but adding a player of Garrett’s caliber could push them over the top. Whether or not they make a serious move will depend on how they navigate their long-term roster strategy and financial commitments.

For now, all eyes are on Cleveland and Detroit, as the NFL world waits to see if one of the league’s best pass rushers will find a new home this offseason.