With a week left before the NFL trade deadline, several contending teams are targeting specific positions to strengthen their rosters for the playoff push.
The Detroit Lions, currently leading the NFC North with a 6-1 record, have a significant concern as they approach the season’s midpoint.
Their star pass rusher, Aidan Hutchinson, suffered a fractured tibia and fibula during the team’s 47-9 win over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 6. Hutchinson’s absence is a major blow; he was leading the league in sacks with seven and consistently pressuring opposing tackles.
This gap in their pass rush has sparked speculation that the Lions might seek an edge rusher before the trade deadline. Frank Schwab of Yahoo Sports predicts that the Lions could trade for Chase Young of the New Orleans Saints.
“We shouldn’t expect Maxx Crosby or Myles Garrett to be traded,” Schwab noted. “The Raiders and Browns may be struggling, but they won’t part with their franchise players without a huge offer.
However, the Lions could make a smaller move to fill Hutchinson’s role. While Young isn’t perfect, he has potential. If healthy and motivated, he could be an effective addition for a Super Bowl-contending team, similar to his role with the 49ers last season. This would be an ideal fit for the Lions, who need a pass-rush solution heading into the playoffs.” Last season, Young took on a similar role for the San Francisco 49ers, joining them before the trade deadline from the Washington Commanders.
In nine games with the 49ers, he recorded two sacks, adding another in the postseason.
The Saints, currently 2-6 and third in the NFC South, are unlikely to compete this season. After signing Young to a one-year, $13 million contract in the offseason, it would be prudent for them to offload his contract for a return rather than letting him leave as a free agent in March.
Recouping a late-round pick in next year’s draft would be an ideal scenario for them.
While Young may not replicate Hutchinson’s high-pressure impact, he represents a practical choice for the Lions, as the trade would likely require only minimal compensation.
