The Detroit Lions are poised for a seismic trade, targeting a Buffalo Bills defensive tackle with a four-year, $68 million contract, sources tell ESPN. The proposed deal, sending a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-rounder to Buffalo, aims to fortify Detroit’s defensive line after a 15-2 season.
The Bills’ star, a 2019 first-round pick, delivered three sacks and 34 pressures in 2024, earning a 70.1 PFF pass-rush grade. His 19 tackles for loss over two seasons showcase his disruptive interior presence, ideal for pairing with Alim McNeill, whose ACL injury clouds his 2025 start.
Lions GM Brad Holmes, leveraging $42.36 million in cap space, sees the $18.2 million cap hit as a bargain for a proven starter. Detroit’s defensive front, ranked 30th in sack rate, needs a spark to complement Aidan Hutchinson’s 7.5 sacks. The veteran’s versatility fits Kelvin Sheppard’s scheme.
Buffalo, after an 8-9 season, eyes a rebuild. Trading the star, in his contract’s final year, nets draft capital for a franchise seeking youth. The Bills’ $15.4 million dead cap hit is offset by future flexibility.
The Lions’ offense, averaging 32.1 points per game, thrives with Jared Goff, but defensive depth is critical against NFC rivals like Philadelphia. The trade addresses a glaring need, with Roy Lopez and Mekhi Wingo as depth. Holmes’ aggressive moves, like signing D.J. Reed, signal a Super Bowl push.
The veteran’s 73.7 PFF pass-rush grade in 2021 highlights his upside. Detroit’s gamble sacrifices picks for immediate impact, aligning with their win-now mentality. Buffalo’s reset gains assets for 2026.
As the April 24 draft looms, this trade could redefine Detroit’s defense. Will the star ignite a championship run? The Lions are banking on it.
This blockbuster positions Detroit as a 2025 NFC powerhouse.
