3 Detroit Lions who could end up on the trade block before Week 1

1. EDGE James Houston

Houston didn't play in the second preseason game. To think it wasn't because he's locked into a roster spot might be a hill that's stood alone on by whoever thinks it. A knee injury from the preseason opener against the Giants feels like the more likely cause for his not suiting up against the Chiefs, and that game could've been seen pretty important for him based on what preceded it.

The Lions have given up on trying to make Houston into a SAM linebacker, paring his duties back to defensive end/edge rusher to allow him to do what he does best. Diving below the surface of that would put him on the roster bubble, and perhaps put him on the wrong side of it if there are internal questions about his versatility with a reduction of what's he's being asked to do.

But in another sense, Houston looks like a possible tradeable asset for the Lions. Eight sacks over seven games to end his 2022 rookie season showed his potential as a pass rusher, and an injury that cost him most of last season derailed a follow-up. Even if he has ultimately proven to be a one-trick pony, that trick (pass rushing) carries a lot of value.

Health permitting, and he was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Houston is lined up for a showcase game in the preseason finale against the Steelers. Not necessarily just an opportunity to take himself off the roster bubble, but also a showcase to possibly spur other teams' interest in trading for him.