By Moses Joshua 
Detroit’s front office could make a bold push to reinforce the trenches with one of the NFL’s most decorated linemen.
The Detroit Lions have done nearly everything right to position themselves as one of the NFC’s elite teams. But even championship-caliber rosters have weak spots — and for Detroit, the offensive line may be one of them. Following a shaky start to the season and ongoing concerns about depth, a new trade proposal has surfaced that could reshape the team’s front five in a major way.
ESPN Suggests a Veteran Boost for Detroit’s Offensive Line
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell recently floated the idea of Detroit making a splash before the trade deadline by targeting Cleveland Browns guard Joel Bitonio, a seven-time consecutive Pro Bowler and one of the most respected offensive linemen in football.
“I also wonder if the Lions should consider trying to find some additional depth along the offensive line, where Giovanni Manu struggled filling in for Taylor Decker before hitting injured reserve with a knee issue,” Barnwell wrote.
The Lions’ tackle situation has been precarious since Decker’s early-season injury, and while rookies Tate Ratledge and Christian Mahogany have shown flashes of potential, their pass protection has been inconsistent. Barnwell notes that while Detroit’s edge and secondary are higher priorities, improving the interior could give quarterback Jared Goff the stability he needs to thrive down the stretch.
Joel Bitonio: A Proven Star Still Playing at a High Level
At 34, Bitonio remains an elite performer, anchoring Cleveland’s offensive line with his trademark power and precision. His ability to dominate both in pass protection and the run game makes him a perfect fit for Dan Campbell’s physical, smash-mouth brand of football.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter recently reported that the Browns may consider offers for multiple interior linemen as they look to reshape their roster. “When he put together his list of potential trade candidates earlier this month, ESPN’s Adam Schefter included the entirety of the interior of Cleveland’s offensive line,” Barnwell added.
If the Lions pursue Bitonio, they’d be adding a player who brings not only skill but also leadership and postseason experience — an invaluable asset for a team eyeing a deep playoff push.
Why a Trade Makes Sense for Detroit
The Lions currently sit atop the NFC North and boast one of the league’s most balanced rosters, but their ambitions extend far beyond another division crown. With nearly $25.5 million in available cap space, general manager Brad Holmes has the flexibility to pursue impact talent without compromising the team’s long-term plans.
A move for Bitonio wouldn’t just be about depth — it would be about sending a message. The Lions are serious contenders, and they’re willing to make the kind of aggressive play that separates playoff hopefuls from Super Bowl threats.
With the November 4 trade deadline rapidly approaching, Detroit’s front office faces a critical decision. Whether they choose to reinforce the edge rush, the secondary, or the offensive line, one thing is clear: the Lions are in win-now mode, and every move counts.