The Detroit Lions are in the market for a reliable edge rusher to temporarily replace the injured Aidan Hutchinson, but finding a suitable option won’t be easy. While some Lions fans might dream of a blockbuster trade to land a star player, it’s more realistic to expect a less dramatic deal that still brings solid talent to Detroit.
NFL analyst Mike Payton from A to Z Sports has proposed an interesting trade that could bring not one, but two defensive players to the Lions without requiring a massive deal. However, the Lions would have to part ways with a quarterback and other assets. Given Hutchinson’s talent, it might take two players to fill the gap until he returns.
A Potential Deal with the Tennessee Titans In an October 16 article for A to Z Sports, Payton suggested that the Tennessee Titans could be a team willing to strike a deal with the Lions.
“The Titans are struggling this season, and there’s speculation that they might be headed for a rebuild,” Payton wrote. “If so, there are several players available on their roster, particularly those who’ve worked with Lions defensive line coach Terrell Williams for the past five seasons.”
Payton proposed that Detroit could acquire Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and linebacker Harold Landry in exchange for Lions backup quarterback Hendon Hooker, cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, a 2025 second-round pick, and a 2026 fourth-round pick. Losing that second-round pick would be painful.
Although Simmons is typically labeled a defensive tackle, Payton highlighted his versatility. “Simmons plays all over the line. He’s been used as a defensive end for two games this season, and that’s been his role throughout his career. In Detroit, he could continue to move between the inside and outside.”
Regarding Landry, Payton described him as “a financial steal.”
“Landry’s contract is structured in such a way that the Lions would only be paying him around $1 million per game. After the season, they could let him go without any loss, as his salary isn’t guaranteed for 2025 or 2026. He could be a one-year rental or stay for two more years—it’s a great situation.”
Why Hooker Must Be Part of the Deal As for Hooker, Payton believes his inclusion in the trade is essential and that Tennessee would gladly accept him.
“The Titans are desperate for a quarterback, and Hooker provides them with a mobile option capable of making plays,” Payton explained. “He’s also familiar to the local fanbase after playing for the Tennessee Volunteers. Hooker could replace Will Levis immediately, and Titans fans would likely embrace it.”
Mike Moraitis of Sporting News, however, questioned whether the Titans would agree to the deal.
“Would the Lions take this deal? Absolutely. Whether the Titans would is another matter,” Moraitis wrote in an October 18 article. “I don’t think the Titans would reject the offer outright, but they’d likely want better draft picks and a different player than Rakestraw in the package.”
