Jared Goff has been rock solid for the Detroit Lions, even landing fifth in MVP voting last season. But with Goff now 30, the Lions might want to start thinking about the future at quarterback — and maybe even upgrade the backup spot behind him.
Right now, that depth chart includes Hendon Hooker and Kyle Allen. But a new trade proposal from Anne Erickson of Heavy Sports offers a wild twist: what if Detroit swung a deal with the Cleveland Browns to bring in Shedeur Sanders?
Yes, that Shedeur Sanders — the former Colorado standout and son of NFL legend Deion Sanders.
In Erickson’s suggested deal, the Lions would send Hooker and a 2026 fifth-round pick to Cleveland in exchange for Sanders. It’s a move that would give Detroit a potential long-term QB option while giving the Browns a more developmental project in Hooker — who might actually get more opportunity there.
Cleveland has a crowded quarterback room already with Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Kenny Pickett battling it out. So if Sanders isn’t climbing the depth chart fast enough, a trade isn’t totally out of the realm of possibility — though Browns fans would probably riot if he were dealt this soon.
Sanders, a 2025 fifth-round pick, has serious upside. His arm strength, football IQ, and drive to succeed make him one of the most buzzed-about rookies in the league right now. And if he hits his potential, he could easily become a franchise QB.
Of course, there’s no sign Cleveland’s actually considering moving him. But if the Browns change course or decide to clear the logjam, the Lions would be smart to pick up the phone.
Whether or not this deal ever happens, expect Sanders’ name to keep popping up as training camps heat up. He’s one of the NFL’s most intriguing young prospects — and maybe, just maybe, a future face in Honolulu blue?
Wild Trade Idea Sends Shedeur Sanders to Lions in QB Shake-Up
