The Detroit Lions are perhaps closer than ever to winning the franchise’s first Super Bowl title. If they are to build off last year’s incredible success, the team will have to make the right moves this offseason.
With that in mind, here’s one trade, cut and signing the Lions should make.
TRADE: Move down in the first round of the 2024 draft
Roughly a year ago, the Lions traded down in the first round with the Arizona Cardinals, ending up with running back Jahymr Gibbs and tight end Sam LaPorta. Heading into this year’s draft, the Lions are uniquely positioned to gain valuable assets by moving back again.
The Lions’ late first-round pick (No. 29) might be attractive to teams that missed out on quarterbacks in the top half of the draft. That means the Lions could come away with a healthy haul if a QB-needy franchise wants to ensure they get one of the remaining prospects on the board, whether it be Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy or Washington’s Michael Penix Jr.
Of course, Detroit could benefit from a player they desire falling in their lap, and they could package picks to move up. However, the smart way to build would be to acquire as many picks as possible and it seems the Lions will have an opportunity to do just that this April.
CUT: Defensive end John Cominsky
The Lions are in relatively good shape cap space-wise, boasting the eighth-most heading into the offseason, per Spotrac. Every little bit counts, though, especially for a Super Bowl contender.
It’s more likely than not that the Lions’ cutting spree is over for now after parting ways with safety Tracy Walker to save $5.5 million. If the Lions want to clear more space, though, cutting Cominsky would free up $4.6 million.
After inking a two-year, $8.5 million contract last offseason, Cominsky’s production hasn’t matched his pay. Coming off a four-sack season in 2022, the 28-year-old recorded only two in 2023. For the Lions, you simply need more production from the ninth-highest-paid player on your roster.
Cominsky is a fan favorite, but there will be younger and cheaper options at the draft in April and in free agency.
SIGNING: Edge-rusher Josh Uche
The Lions are in dire need of a pass-rushing threat opposite Pro Bowler Aidan Hutchinson. While they likely won’t break the bank for the top edges available on the open market, Uche might fit the bill for an upgrade.
Uche had only three sacks in 15 games last season, but that came on a New England Patriots defense devoid of much talent or direction. The 25-year-old had a breakout campaign in 2022, recording 11.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. His down 2023 will likely lower his price tag, offering the Lions a chance at a steal in free agency.
Inking Uche to a relatively cheap, short-term deal seems like the most realistic option for the Lions, who could, in turn, draft another edge rusher to toss into the rotation.
Uche isn’t as sexy an addition as, say, Brian Burns or Danielle Hunter, but it would adequately solidify a position of need.