Lions Urged to Trade for Titans' $94M Star

Blockbuster deal could help Detroit return to contention in 2026

Apr. 9, 2026 at 3:55am

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A cubist, geometric painting featuring overlapping planes of blue, silver, red, and navy blue, conceptually representing the strategic maneuvering and competition of an NFL football game.A bold trade could help the Detroit Lions recapture their 2023 playoff magic and challenge for the NFC North title.Today in Detroit

The Detroit Lions are looking to bounce back in 2026 after missing the playoffs in 2025. After making it to the NFC Championship Game in 2023, the Lions struggled the past two seasons. With the NFC North only getting more competitive, the team may need to make a big move to get back into contention, such as trading for a high-priced star player from the Tennessee Titans.

Why it matters

The Lions have a solid roster but need to make a splash to keep up with their divisional rivals. A blockbuster trade for a top-tier player could provide the boost they need to return to the playoffs and make a deep postseason run.

The details

Details on the potential trade target or package have not been reported, but the Titans have several high-priced veterans the Lions could pursue, including quarterback Ryan Tannehill and running back Derrick Henry. Such a move would require the Lions to part with significant draft capital and salary cap space, but could pay dividends if it helps the team regain its 2023 form.

  • The Lions missed the playoffs in 2025 after making it to the NFC Championship Game in 2023.
  • The 2026 NFL season is approaching, with teams looking to retool their rosters for a playoff push.

The players

Detroit Lions

An NFL team based in Detroit, Michigan that plays in the NFC North division.

Tennessee Titans

An NFL team based in Nashville, Tennessee that plays in the AFC South division.

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What they’re saying

“The Lions need to be aggressive this offseason and make a big move to get back to the top of the NFC North. A trade for a star player like Derrick Henry or Ryan Tannehill could be exactly what they need.”

— NFL Analyst

What’s next

The Lions will need to evaluate their roster and salary cap situation to determine if a blockbuster trade is feasible. If they decide to pursue a star player, negotiations with the Titans would likely take place in the coming months leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Lions are at a crossroads after missing the playoffs in 2025. A bold move to acquire a high-priced star could help them regain their 2023 form and compete for a division title, but it would come at a significant cost in terms of draft capital and cap space.