Ok, I’ll play along with this trade idea introduced by former NFL GM Mike Tannenbaum that’s sending three first-round picks, a second-round pick, AND Jahmyr Gibbs to Cleveland for DE Myles Garrett.
First, Garrett is signed through 2026 so in the VERY unlikely event that Brad Holmes were to pull the trigger on this hypothetical then you get one of the best pass rushers in the NFL for two more seasons beyond this year. This move immediately makes the defense better and sets Detroit up with not only the best offensive line next season but the best defensive line as well. Seriously, there’s not a defensive coordinator in the league that’s going to be able to gameplan successfully against a Lions pass rush that includes Garrett AND Aidan Hutchinson next season.
Second, could the Lions still win the Super Bowl this season if Gibbs was gone but you add Garrett to the defense?
Yes, of course.
I think that the Lions could win the Super Bowl this season without Hutchinson, however, that doesn’t mean Holmes shouldn’t go out and address a glaring need on defense.
But the Lions’ ability to still have a good shot to win the Super Bowl without Hutchinson this season is exactly why this is a ridiculous trade if you’re the Lions. Sure, if Tannenbaum is playing the role of Browns GM here, and you know Detroit needs an end then yes, you call up Brad Holmes and make this initial offer to him. There’s really nothing crazy about it. What would be crazy is Holmes saying yes without any kind of counteroffer. You could offer up the draft picks alone in this deal and it’s still incredibly enticing for the Browns and a much more sober-minded approach if you’re the Lions. Including Gibbs should be an unnecessary throw in considering his role in the offense within today’s NFL, which has evolved into a two-back system.
How would Gibbs’s absence play a role in this offense moving forward?
Could David Montgomery handle double the work load?
What kind of effect would this have on the vibe of this team? Especially in the locker room?
Acquiring a premium piece like Garrett requires a premium package which you already had without Gibbs.