A Game-Changing Move to Strengthen Detroit’s Defense

The Detroit Lions are coming off one of their most successful seasons in franchise history, winning 15 games, securing back-to-back NFC North titles, and earning the NFC’s No. 1 seed for the first time. However, their season ended in heartbreak with a Divisional Round loss to Washington, marking another frustrating playoff exit.

Now, with a talented core in place and a Super Bowl window still wide open, Detroit enters the 2025 offseason with a clear goal—bolstering the defense. While edge rusher remains the most glaring need, an upgrade at cornerback could be just as critical.

One trade in particular could be the perfect move to help the Lions take the next step: acquiring Cleveland Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II.

Lions Acquire Greg Newsome II from the Browns

Before diving into why this deal makes sense, here’s a look at the proposed trade terms:

Trade Details:

Lions receive:

• CB Greg Newsome II

Browns receive:

• 2026 third-round compensatory pick

At first glance, this may not seem like the blockbuster move Lions fans have been hoping for. Many have speculated about Detroit making a run at Cleveland’s All-Pro pass rusher Myles Garrett. However, that scenario is highly unlikely, as the Browns remain committed to their defensive anchor despite his trade request.

Newsome II, on the other hand, is a far more realistic trade target—and one who could provide an immediate impact in Detroit’s secondary.

Why This Trade Is Perfect for the Lions

Detroit has built one of the most well-rounded rosters in the league, but the secondary remains an area of concern. With veteran Carlton Davis III potentially leaving in free agency, the Lions must find another reliable cornerback to pair with rookie standout Terrion Arnold.

Newsome II fits that role perfectly.

• Proven Talent: A former first-round pick, Newsome II has four years of NFL experience and has shown flashes of being a top-tier cornerback. While his 2024 season wasn’t his best, he excelled in prior years, earning recognition as one of the league’s top press-man coverage defenders.
• Scheme Fit: The Lions, under former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, ran a heavy dose of press-man coverage. While new DC Kelvin Sheppard may tweak the scheme, he was part of Glenn’s staff and likely won’t stray far from that philosophy. Newsome II thrives in press coverage, making him an ideal addition.
• Financially Feasible: With $51 million in cap space, the Lions can comfortably absorb Newsome II’s $13.38 million cap hit in 2025. Even after making the trade, they would still have nearly $39 million left to address other needs. A long-term extension could also be on the table to keep him in Detroit for years to come.

Detroit’s current cornerback depth chart includes Arnold, Ennis Rakestraw Jr., and Amik Robertson. Adding Newsome II would solidify the starting lineup, allowing Rakestraw Jr. and Robertson to rotate in the slot or serve as key backups.

Why the Browns Would Consider Moving Newsome II

While Cleveland would surely prefer to keep Newsome II, financial constraints may force their hand. The Browns are currently $24 million over the salary cap and have limited options for clearing space, especially with Deshaun Watson’s massive fully guaranteed contract on the books.

Trading Newsome II would provide instant cap relief by freeing up his entire $13.38 million salary. With over $50 million in dead cap already tied to players like Amari Cooper, Za’Darius Smith, and Jedrick Wills, Cleveland needs every bit of financial flexibility it can get.

The Browns would also receive a third-round compensatory pick in 2026, a valuable asset for a team that will need to reload its roster in the coming years.

A Move That Makes Sense for Both Sides

For the Lions, this trade represents an opportunity to strengthen their defense without mortgaging their future. Instead of swinging for an unrealistic blockbuster deal, Detroit can make a smart, calculated move that brings in a talented young cornerback with proven success in the NFL.

For the Browns, it provides much-needed salary cap relief while recouping a future draft asset.

If the Lions truly believe Greg Newsome II is the missing piece in their secondary, there’s no reason they shouldn’t pull the trigger on this deal. With a defense on the rise and a roster built for a deep playoff run, this could be the move that finally pushes Detroit over the top and into Super Bowl contention.