Lions' locker room would benefit from addition of Cameron Heyward

Entering training camp, the Detroit Lions have few needs on the surface, but as the 2024 season wears on, some holes could expose themselves defensively.

Will Detroit's renovated pass rush be up to the challenge? Many believe major question marks remain. Even with the quality addition of DJ Reader, the entire defensive line could use a boost. Enter the ever-churning rumor mill.

Prior to training camp, Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox put together a list of players who could be on the trading block this season. The Lions were offered as a fit for three of the 10 players, all along the defensive front.

Interestingly, Knox speculated that Pittsburgh Steelers' standout tackle Cameron Heyward could eventually be on the block, and listed the Lions as a fit for his services given their cap space and defensive concerns.

"Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward ranks low on our list because he won't be readily available at this point in the offseason. The Steelers are searching for their first playoff win since 2016 and won't actively shop one of their defensive leaders."

"Yet Heyward's impact potential is too great to leave him off the list proper. The six-time Pro Bowler battled a significant groin injury last season but produced 163 tackles and 20.5 sacks over the previous two seasons."

"Heyward may become a more realistic trade target closer to the deadline, depending on his contract status and how Pittsburgh's season unfolds. He's worth a mention now, though, because he is seeking a new deal and has yet to receive an extension from the Steelers."

Knos suggested a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-round pick as the cost to get Heyward. That looks steep for an aging player, but Heyward has shown he can still impact the game. And what he offers off the field is also important.

Cameron Heyward's leadership would be major boost for the Lions

Outside of Reader, the Lions' defensive line is very young. Heyward obviously brings ample experience to the table, entering his 14th season (194 regular season games). He has also played in eight playoff games in his career.

Heyward is a seven-time team captain over his career with the Steelers. He won the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in 2023. Character, experience and veteran leadership is something any locker room could use, and Heyward can also still play a little.

The Steelers will likely wait and see how their year unfolds before unloading a franchise legend, and the Lions may ultimately not need more help on the interior defensive line. For now, this is merely an interesting potential in-season move to file away.