Incredibly, the NFL trade deadline is only a week away.
With action at the deadline becoming more and more common in recent years, it’s safe to assume we’ll be seeing some fireworks in the coming week.
Speaking of which, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell hinted that a significant trade may be in the works to bolster the team’s defense, particularly on the edge.
With the Lions aiming to position themselves as Super Bowl contenders, Campbell’s comments suggest a move could be imminent to address their struggling pass rush.
Speaking to reporters, Campbell emphasized that the Lions aren’t in a “panic mode” to make changes but hinted at potential activity before the deadline.
“We’re still talking about it, and we’re still working through it. I’m not concerned. There’s other ways of creating pressure,” Campbell said.
“Would you like a little more? Yeah, you’d like a little more – but there was a number of plays in there, too, where they got the ball out of their hand. They had some empty that they showed we thought they’d do a little bit. They did more than we thought so the ball comes out pretty quick.
“They had a couple things where they were attacking us in man coverage that were good, so you can get the ball out … But believe: We’re aware, and we’re still looking at it, but no, I wouldn’t say we’re in panic mode.”
Pressed further on whether a trade could be finalized soon, Campbell’s response raised eyebrows. “Yeah, could be,” he replied, grinning, adding even more intrigue with a playful jump.
Detroit’s need for reinforcements on the edge has become clear, with a series of injuries decimating their roster.
Star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who along with Campbell is the face of the franchise, sustained a broken leg that will (likely) keep him sidelined until at least the Super Bowl.
Additionally, Marcus Davenport, Derrick Barnes, and John Cominsky are all on injured reserve, putting a strain on the Lions’ depth.
In Detroit’s recent 52-14 victory over the Tennessee Titans, Al-Quadin Muhammad, a recent addition from the practice squad, led the team with six quarterback pressures and five hurries.
Defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike, who has been moved from the interior to play on the outside, now leads the team in pressures with 22, excluding Hutchinson’s stats.
Despite these efforts, Detroit managed only one sack in the past two games without Hutchinson, underscoring the urgency for additional firepower.
Needless to say, Detroit fans are dreaming of bringing Maxx Crosby home.
Although Las Vegas has stated that they have no intentions of trading Crosby, we all know he is attainable at the right price.
Perhaps Campbell’s cryptic giddiness has something to do with Crosby? … Maybe, just maybe, a deal for Mad Maxx is in the works.
What are your thoughts???