By Mummy Grace 
But what if the Lions made a bold move?
Over in Pittsburgh, there’s some smoke that could lead to fire. T.J. Watt skipped mandatory minicamp to push for a new deal, and if the Steelers give him the bag — reportedly north of $30 million per year — it might put Alex Highsmith’s future in question. Highsmith’s already got a $68 million contract with a hefty $18.6 million cap hit in 2025.
Could Detroit swoop in?
Highsmith isn’t just a second fiddle to Watt. The guy posted 14.5 sacks in 2022, forced five fumbles, and even grabbed a pick-six last season. Since 2021, he’s been one of the top strip-sack artists in the league, and he doesn’t just rush the passer — he can drop into coverage, play special teams, and hold up against the run.
Here’s what a trade might look like:
Lions get: Alex Highsmith and a conditional 2026 fifth-round pick (becomes a fourth if he gets fewer than 10 sacks in 2025)
Steelers get: 2026 second-round pick + 2026 fifth-round pick
For Detroit, it’s a shot at an elite, versatile pass rusher without having to overspend in free agency next offseason. With Hutchinson on one side and Highsmith on the other, this defense would be a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.
Even if Pittsburgh’s not actively shopping Highsmith, Lions GM Brad Holmes might want to at least place the call. Because if they can land him, this Detroit defense might go from good to terrifying.