The Lions defense isn’t reliable

By: Jake Rajala

The Detroit Lions defense was broken and lethargic last season. With that said, I’m going to untwine five players the Lions could trade for to boost their defense.

Kavyon Thibodeaux

The GMEN drafted Abdul Carter and it appears he will start over Kavyon Thibodeaux. That shouldn’t slam the door shut on Kavyon and his up-side. Thibodeaux registered 11.5 sacks, 16 quarterback hits, and 12 tackles for loss in 2023. He played quite well for a 12 game stretch last season, as he brought home 5.5 sacks, 17 QB hits, and eight TFLs. He is still 24 years old, so he has the world in his hands.

Jalen Ramsey

Jalen Ramsey could really help shut down the likes of Justin Jefferson twice a season and A.J. Brown in the playoffs. If Ramsey doesn’t reunite with the LA Rams, he should join forces with a Super Bowl contender in the Motor City. Ramsey isn’t a Top-10 CB anymore, but he could be a modest starter for a few more seasons.

Quinnen Williams

Quinnen Williams is superb against the pass (six sacks, 18 QB hits) and the run (eight TFLs and 25 solo tackles). He also had 54 pressures, which was seventh among DL. Williams is the second-highest paid DT in football. It wouldn’t be a massive surprise if the Jets moved on from the veteran as they are in a mild rebuild.

Chase Young

Chase Young is a low-risk, high-reward player. He won Defensive Rooke of The Year and he’s made a lot of splash plays. However, he didn’t quite take off with the Saints last season, as he notched 5.5 sacks, 21 QB hits, and eight TFLs. Young can stay more healthy than Lion and former Saint Marcus Davenport, too.

A’Shawn Robinson

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”

A’Shawn Robinson was a modest plugger at DT in his first four seasons with the Lions. He showed to be like fine wine, as he only improved with age. He had his best season in 2024, no doubt. He acquired 5.5 sacks, eight TFLs, and 80 tackles!

Honorable Mention:

Joey Porter Jr.

With the addition of Darius Slay. Joey Porter Jr. is somewhat expendable in the short-term. He had a couple of ints and seven pass deflections in the last two seasons. He also had 70 combined tackles last season. At 6’2, he can match up well to the likes of Justin Jefferson. Furthermore, he is only 24 years old.