By Sunday 
A Hypothetical Move That Raises Questions About Value and Fit
Lions GM Downplays Interest in Star Edge Rusher
During his press conference at the NFL Combine, Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes seemed to dismiss the idea of pursuing a blockbuster trade for a star edge rusher this offseason. With several key contract extensions looming for their young core, the Lions face financial constraints that could make such a move challenging—even with a favorable salary cap situation.
A Hypothetical Trade for Joey Bosa
Despite these obstacles, a recent trade proposal has surfaced, suggesting the Lions could acquire five-time Pro Bowler Joey Bosa from the Los Angeles Chargers. In an article exploring possible trade scenarios for defensive stars, Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport pitched the idea of Detroit trading a fourth-round pick for the veteran pass rusher.
While the proposition seems intriguing on the surface, Bosa’s recent performances raise concerns about whether he is worth the investment.
Bosa’s Declining Production and Injury Woes
Over the past few seasons, Bosa has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play. In 2022, he was limited to just five games, posting a mere 2.5 sacks and 10 total tackles. His production improved slightly in 2023, appearing in nine games and recording 6.5 sacks. However, this past season, he played in 14 games but managed only five sacks—ranking just fifth on the Chargers’ roster.
It’s been a while since Bosa was regarded as one of the league’s premier pass rushers. His declining impact is a key reason why the proposed trade would only require a mid-round draft pick. However, it’s also the primary reason Detroit may not view him as a worthwhile target.
Should the Lions Take the Risk?
With only one year left on his contract, acquiring Bosa wouldn’t represent a massive long-term financial gamble. However, Detroit’s primary concern is retaining its homegrown talent, making it unlikely they’d prioritize a move for an injury-prone veteran. Additionally, the free agency market offers more cost-effective pass-rushing options with better recent production and fewer durability concerns.
While Bosa’s name carries weight, his recent struggles and contract situation make him an unlikely fit for the Lions. Instead of a high-risk gamble, Detroit is better off exploring alternative solutions to bolster its defensive front.