The Detroit Lions have been going about their business in free agency, quietly filling needs across their roster. Even though that's the case, there are plenty of gaping holes continuing to show themselves.
Defensively, the Lions still need help in their backfield, as well as at pass rusher and perhaps linebacker. Offensively, there's been no long-term solution at tackle after the team released Taylor Decker. That sets up a situation where the draft is going to be vital to finish off Detroit's offseason.
Could the Lions make a trade to help patch some of their holes? It's possible, but on the surface, they might not have much to offer on the roster in terms of players to dangle for fixes. Their best asset could be the No. 17 pick this year.
John Kosko of PFF took a look at every team's best trade asset, naming the No. 17 selection as the best piece for the Lions to dangle in order to fix more needs.
"The Lions need to rebuild their offensive line. Just two years ago, it was the strength of the roster, but departures through retirement, free agency and roster cuts have left the unit lacking depth and talent," writes Kosko.
"While Detroit could stay put and select the best player available, trading down to acquire multiple future picks may be the more effective strategy. That approach would allow the Lions to address several needs and reinforce an offense that remains critical to Jared Goff's success."
Tackle remains a big hole on the roster, and many pundits believe that the Lions will use that pick to solve their need up front offensively. If the Lions could get that tackle by moving back a bit and also picking up more selections, it would have to be considered a significant win.
Detroit could theoretically move up in the draft, given its ammunition with nine selections, but it would make more sense for the Lions to add to their coffers to add additional players for depth.
Pressure is on Brad Holmes to have an elite draft for Lions this year
If attaining more draft picks is something the Lions could look to do, it would be a wise idea. Detroit doesn't have a third-round pick this year, and while they have multiple selections in other rounds, adding in the second or third round could be the key to having another elite draft.
Recently, Detroit's best draft was in 2023, when the team benefited from having multiple picks in early rounds. The Lions were able to find plenty of elite talent to round out their roster, and a similar infusion could work identical magic this year.
Holmes has done well when he has had multiple picks at his disposal. In those situations, he has been able to showcase his scouting skills and ability to maneuver up and down the draft board. That is how he brought the Lions out of the doldrums early in his tenure and set them up for the success they have enjoyed.
Detroit's biggest need remains tackle, and it's one that they are poised to solve quickly in the draft. If they can do it while gaining additional ammunition to maneuver in the draft, it could be the key to having an elite finish to the offseason.