By Moses Joshua 
As the 2025 NFL trade deadline approaches, Detroit weighs potential moves — or stands pat with a confident roster.
The clock is ticking toward the 2025 NFL trade deadline, and all eyes are on the Detroit Lions. With the cutoff set for Tuesday, November 4, at 4 p.m. ET, speculation is swirling about whether general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell will pull the trigger on any late deals to bolster their playoff push.
So far, the front office has remained quiet — but as history has shown, the Lions aren’t afraid to make a move when opportunity strikes.
Dan Campbell Keeps Expectations in Check
In his typical candid style, Dan Campbell downplayed the likelihood of a big trade but stopped short of closing the door completely.
«“I don’t,” Campbell said when asked if he expects the Lions to be active. “But that doesn’t mean we won’t.”»
Campbell made it clear he’s satisfied with the team’s current construction, praising the depth that Holmes has built across the roster.
«“I love where we’re at. I think the roster is healthy, I think it’s in a good position, I think we have depth. But like I say, he’s always looking to improve the roster. That’s one of his jobs and he does a hell of a job at it.”»
That sentiment reflects the team’s steady confidence. Detroit sits in strong contention in the NFC North, and Campbell’s focus remains on internal improvement rather than a frantic search for outside help.
Rumored Connections: Bengals, Edge Rushers, and Defensive Depth
While Campbell’s comments point to calm waters, a few ripples have surfaced across the league rumor mill. According to Dianna Russini, several teams — including the Lions — have reached out to the Cincinnati Bengals regarding potential trades.
The report mentions interest in LB Logan Wilson, CB Cam Taylor-Britt, and DE Trey Hendrickson, though it’s unclear whether Cincinnati has any true intention of parting with its core defenders.
«“Many teams, including the Rams, 49ers, Lions, Colts and Eagles, have called the Bengals on numerous players,” Russini reported, noting that “some teams don’t believe Cincinnati has any real interest in moving its core pieces.”»
Beyond the Bengals, Detroit has also been tied to a broader market of edge rushers, with reports that the Lions, Ravens, Commanders, and Eagles are all exploring options to strengthen their pass rush ahead of the stretch run.
Still, Detroit’s defensive line already looks formidable — and with Marcus Davenport and Josh Paschal both expected to return soon, any move would likely be about short-term insurance rather than necessity.
Assessing the Needs: Depth, Health, and Smart Spending
At safety, the Lions have been without Kerby Joseph for two games due to a knee injury. Yet, Thomas Harper has stepped up admirably, and Daniel Thomas is nearing a return. For now, this doesn’t appear to be a critical hole to fill.
The reality is that Detroit’s biggest strength might be its stability. Holmes and Campbell have built a team that trusts its own — one that values chemistry and accountability as much as raw talent. Unless a deal presents undeniable value, the Lions seem poised to roll with the roster that’s carried them this far.
The Bottom Line
As the trade deadline looms, the Lions find themselves in a rare and enviable position: balanced, confident, and in control. Dan Campbell’s comments suggest that any move will be a strategic addition, not a desperate swing.
If Detroit stands pat, it’s because they believe this group can finish what they started — and for a franchise long searching for stability, that’s a powerful statement in itself.