The NFC North is shaping up to be a battle this season. The Lions may be favored, but every team — yes, even the Bears — has a case to make. With Detroit’s offseason moves leaving some fans wanting more, now might be the perfect time for the team to go bold. And according to a recent Bleacher Report trade proposal, there’s a move that could shake the division and serve as the ultimate bit of offseason gamesmanship.
The trade idea? The Lions send a 2026 fifth-round pick to the Los Angeles Chargers in exchange for veteran pass rusher Khalil Mack.
From a football perspective, the logic checks out. Mack, though entering the twilight of his career, is still producing at a high level — he had a career-best 17 sacks in 2023 and made his third straight Pro Bowl. The Chargers rewarded him with a one-year extension in March, but with LA heading into a retooling phase, a late-round pick might be enough to get a deal done.
For the Lions, the move would add a proven edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Injuries hit Detroit hard last season, especially on defense, and the lack of depth on the edge was exposed after Hutchinson went down. Mack would immediately provide both insurance and impact.
But beyond football, the potential pettiness of this trade makes it even better. Mack is still beloved in Chicago for his time with the Bears. Watching him suit up in Lions blue and sack rookie QB Caleb Williams would be a dagger for Bears fans — and a flex for Detroit as they look to take control of the division again.
Sometimes it’s not just about winning games. It’s about winning the mental battle too. And this move would do both.
Proposed Lions Trade for Khalil Mack Would Be the Ultimate Power Move — and a Brutal Blow to Chicago
