The Detroit Lions are riding a whirlwind of trade rumors and roster shake-ups as they prepare for their showdown with the Minnesota Vikings. With the NFL trade deadline fast approaching on November 5th, the Lions are on the hunt for defensive reinforcements, particularly in the wake of Aidan Hutchinson's injury.
One name popping up in the rumor mill is Za’Darius Smith, a pass-rushing dynamo currently with the Cleveland Browns. Jeremy Reisman from Pride of Detroit highlights that Smith could be the tonic the Lions' defense needs. Smith himself has admitted that playing for Detroit would be appealing, particularly for the chance to square off against his former teams, the Packers and Vikings, twice a year. Although Smith, at 32, may not be in his prime, his nine-season tally of 63 sacks and 10 forced fumbles could add serious clout to the Lions' defensive line.
Despite the allure of acquiring a seasoned competitor like Smith, Taylyn Hadley from Bleacher Report points out that financial constraints might tighten the Lions' negotiation flexibility. However, with Hutchinson sidelined due to a fractured tibia and fibula, the motivation to ensure a robust defense could lead to bold moves before the deadline.
In addition to potential incoming players, the Lions have been actively restructuring their current roster to mitigate injury impacts. Pat O'Connor, a robust defensive end, has been promoted to the 53-man roster, making his Lions debut several years after being drafted by them in 2017. After cutting his teeth with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, O’Connor returns to Detroit ready to contribute, as noted by Jeff Risdon from USA Today.
Moreover, the Lions elevated rookie EDGE Isaac Ukwu and the uniquely positioned Shane Zylstra from the practice squad for Sunday's clash. While Ukwu steps in as a burgeoning presence on the field, it remains to be seen what specific role Zylstra will play with the existing trio of tight ends. Jeremy Reisman from Pride of Detroit interprets Zylstra's elevation as potentially strategic, given his prior injury setbacks and the need for reliable depth.
As the trade winds blow through Detroit, Lions fans can expect a period of strategic plays both on and off the field. Whether through trade acquisitions or internal promotions, Detroit seems committed to weathering the storm and keeping the roar mighty against the gridiron challenges.
What other sites are saying about this topic
Lions sign Pat O’Connor to 53-man roster, elevate practice squad players from Jeremy Reisman, Pride Of Detroit
NFL Trade Rumors: Lions Eye DE amid Aidan Hutchinson Injury; Za'Darius Smith Linked from Taylyn Hadley, Bleacher Report
Lions sign veteran DE and elevate two from practice squad for Week 7 from Jeff Risdon, USA Today
NFL trade rumors: Za’Darius Smith says he’d ‘like’ trade to Lions from Jeremy Reisman, Pride Of Detroit