The Detroit Lions have been linked to several high-profile pass rushers this offseason, but one name that might be a more realistic trade option is Chargers defensive end Joey Bosa. Bleacher Report recently proposed a trade that would send Bosa to Detroit in exchange for a 2025 fourth-round pick, but is this move actually worth it for the Lions?
On the surface, adding Bosa would bring another proven edge rusher to a defense that still needs more pressure alongside Aidan Hutchinson. When healthy, Bosa is one of the league’s most disruptive defenders, capable of creating sacks and pressures at an elite level. However, that “when healthy” part is a huge red flag. Over the past three seasons, Bosa hasn’t played more than 10 games in a year due to various injuries, making it hard to justify investing in him.
Another concern is his contract. Bosa carries a massive $36 million cap hit for 2025, a number that could significantly limit Detroit’s ability to retain its own key players in the near future. The Lions already took a swing on an injury-prone pass rusher last year with Marcus Davenport, and that experiment ended quickly when he was lost for the season in Week 3.
Lions GM Brad Holmes has been aggressive in building this roster, but he’s also been smart about where to invest resources. If Detroit is going to add a pass rusher, they’d likely prefer someone younger and more durable. While Bosa’s talent is undeniable, this trade feels like a major risk without a clear reward. A fourth-round pick might not be a steep price, but the real cost—Bosa’s availability and contract—makes this deal far from a slam dunk.
Grading the Intriguing Trade Proposal That Sends Joey Bosa to Detroit
