By Moses Joshua 
Detroit’s front office is keeping the phones active as they search for defensive reinforcements ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
Report: Lions Exploring Trade with AFC Team to Bolster Defense
The Detroit Lions are making quiet but strategic moves behind the scenes as the NFL trade deadline approaches. According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Detroit has reached out to the Cincinnati Bengals — a team drawing significant attention from multiple contenders — to gauge potential trade options.
Lions Among Teams Contacting the Bengals
Russini reports that “many teams, including the Rams, 49ers, Lions, Colts and Eagles, have called the Bengals on numerous players, including LB Logan Wilson, CB Cam Taylor-Britt and, of course, DE Trey Hendrickson.”
For now, Cincinnati appears reluctant to part with any of its core contributors. “Some teams don’t believe Cincinnati has any real interest in moving its core pieces,” Russini added.
Still, the fact that Detroit is among the teams checking in speaks volumes about general manager Brad Holmes’ approach — he’s leaving no stone unturned in his pursuit of defensive help.
Focused on Safety and Defensive Line Depth
Russini also noted that “The Lions are looking for help at safety and defensive line.” That focus makes sense given the recent strain on Detroit’s defensive depth.
Safety Kerby Joseph continues to manage a nagging knee injury, while pass rusher Marcus Davenport remains sidelined. The Lions have relied on younger players to fill those gaps, but as the season wears on, Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell know that depth can make or break a playoff run.
On the defensive front, Detroit’s search for consistent pressure opposite Aidan Hutchinson remains ongoing. Trey Hendrickson’s name has surfaced multiple times as a potential fit — a move that would instantly give Detroit one of the league’s most imposing edge duos.
Brad Holmes’ Calculated Approach
If there’s one thing Lions fans have learned about Brad Holmes, it’s that he won’t make a move just for headlines. His past acquisitions — from Carlton Davis to Za’Darius Smith — reflect a commitment to culture, value, and long-term fit.
Still, with Detroit emerging as a legitimate Super Bowl contender, Holmes appears willing to act if the right opportunity presents itself. The message is clear: this team is in win-now mode.
The Bottom Line
Even if a trade doesn’t materialize, the Lions’ activity signals intent. Detroit isn’t rebuilding anymore — they’re refining. Every call, every conversation, every evaluation is part of a larger plan to strengthen a roster already capable of making noise in January.
Whether the Lions land Trey Hendrickson, a rotational lineman, or a versatile safety, one thing is certain: Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell aren’t done building. They’re preparing to strike when the moment — and the player — is right.