By Blessing 
As trade talks swirl around Cleveland Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett, teams across the NFL are evaluating what it might take to acquire one of the league’s premier pass rushers. Among the potential suitors is the Detroit Lions, who are reportedly weighing the hefty price required to land the game-changing defensive talent. According to ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, the Browns aren’t expected to let Garrett go without a significant trade package in return.
The Steep Price for Myles Garrett
Fowler, sharing insights gathered during Super Bowl week, reported that league insiders believe Cleveland will demand a substantial return for Garrett.
“People I’ve talked to about Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett’s trade market agree that his immense talent should garner at least two quality picks in return — either two first-rounders, or a first-rounder and a high-level Day 2 pick package,” Fowler said.
Given Garrett’s reputation as one of the most dominant pass rushers in the league, the high asking price isn’t surprising. He’s posted double-digit sacks in seven of his eight seasons and consistently disrupts opposing offenses. With that level of production, Garrett could instantly elevate any team’s defense, making him a hot commodity in the trade market.
Can the Lions Afford the Price?
The Lions have emerged as a potential landing spot for Garrett, as they seek to build a championship-caliber roster. Adding Garrett to a defense already led by rising star Aidan Hutchinson could create one of the most formidable pass-rushing tandems in the league.
However, there’s a significant challenge: the cost. General Manager Brad Holmes has stuck to a philosophy of building through the draft. Giving up two first-round picks — plus possibly a high-level Day 2 selection — would mark a major shift from that strategy. Holmes must consider whether the long-term vision for the Lions aligns with such an aggressive move.
While Garrett would undoubtedly elevate Detroit’s defense and accelerate their competitive timeline, parting with multiple premium draft picks is a tough pill to swallow. The Lions will have to carefully weigh whether this move fits within their overall approach.
Garrett’s Contender Ambition
Another key factor in the trade equation is Garrett’s desire to join a contending team. Fowler noted that this desire could limit his market, as Garrett likely wants to land with a team capable of making a serious playoff push.
The Browns have struggled with consistency, and Garrett’s reported trade request may reflect his desire to compete at the highest level. Detroit’s rise as a legitimate playoff contender could make them an appealing destination, though they must prove willing to meet Cleveland’s demands.
What’s Next for the Lions?
As the trade deadline approaches, the Lions will need to decide if they’re willing to break from their draft-focused strategy to acquire Garrett. While he could be a transformative addition, the steep price tag demands careful deliberation.
Whether or not the Lions pull the trigger on this blockbuster deal, it’s clear that they are building a team capable of competing at the highest level — and Myles Garrett would be the kind of player who could take them there faster.