The Detroit Lions have a chance to re-shape their roster this offseason, and a leaky defense is likely to be most in focus.
A chance exists for a bold move at cornerback, which is a major position of need this offseason. Bleacher Report's David Kenyon has suggested just such a deal for the Lions.
"If he's not already the NFL's best cornerback, Patrick Surtain II isn't far removed from that label. A first-team AP All-Pro selection in 2022, he's easily the most talented player on the Denver Broncos."
"Given that reality, the idea of trading him might seem ridiculous. But as Denver leans into a rebuild, its financial situation is miserable—and that's before the looming departure of quarterback Russell Wilson wrecks the books even further in 2024."
"Look, the Broncos should not be eager to trade Surtain. They also could receive a massive haul in return from the Detroit Lions, who enjoyed a stellar year despite a real issue at corner."
"Detroit ranked 31st in yards allowed per pass attempt and yielded 28 touchdowns compared to 16 interceptions."
"Surtain would probably cost no less than two first-round picks. But if the Lions are ready to chase a Super Bowl, he'd be a championship-worthy splash at their largest position of need."
Kenyon proposed the Lions giving up their first-round picks this year and next, as well as a fourth-round pick in 2025.
Surtain would give the Lions a bona fide shutdown cornerback, there's no doubt about that. The biggest question is whether or not Brad Holmes would cough up a pair of first-round picks to add such a player.
Lions general manager Brad Holmes would be smart to consider major trade
Dealing for a player of Surtain's caliber would be expensive. But at this point, the Lions are in position to consider all-in moves.
In free agency, there are few guarantees in terms of which players will work out. Detroit had high hopes for Cam Sutton last year, but by the end of the season he was struggling mightily. While Holmes has drafted well, it's never a lock that a rookie will get assimilated and play well immediately.
At a vital spot like cornerback, a contending team like the Lions can ill-afford to take any chances that don't have a shot of translating immediately. This offseason, Holmes needs to remember how close the Lions came to winning a title and make moves that push them closer to getting over the top.
Dealing for Surtain or another elite defender would qualify as such a move, no matter what draft picks the Lions might have to sacrifice in the process. The defense must be pushed closer to championship caliber, and the trade market offers possible winning blockbuster solutions like this one.