The Detroit Lions could use a pass rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
That’s what everyone has spent this offseason saying.
So maybe they should just trade for one of the best edge players in NFL history.
T.J. Watt’s status with the Steelers is uncertain with him being due soon for a probable record-setting contract that exceeds $160 million over four years (Myles Garrett).
Pittsburgh could opt instead to trade Watt, write Pro Football Network’s Sterling Xie.
“Is there really any chance the Steelers will move on from a franchise icon and still-elite player?” Xie wonders. “… It’s a virtual lock Watt won’t actually reach free agency, but that doesn’t guarantee he’ll be back with the Steelers.”
In 2024, Watt had 11.5 sacks and forced six fumbles.
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The Lions had acquired Za’Darius Smith last season to pair with Hutchinson, but then between Hutchinson’s injury and Smith’s age, they never got to see it play out.
Smith is still a free agent right now, so he could always come back to Detroit in a less over-the-top move.
“If the Steelers do pull the plug on one of the best players in franchise history, all 31 teams should call given his durability and still-high level of performance. The Bills, Lions, and Commanders are among the Super Bowl contenders with the clearest holes at edge rusher who could benefit most from Watt,” Xie writes.
Xie points out that dealing for Watt would probably cost “multiple first-round picks.”
But if the Lions can get Watt to help them chase a Super Bowl, pretty much any price would be worth it.
Watt turns 31 in October, but for at least the next couple seasons, he’ll remain one of the best players in football. Detroit should want him in a Lions jersey.
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