The Detroit Lions entered the offseason needing to upgrade a defense that faltered down the stretch and led to their unraveling against the Washington Commanders in the playoffs. They’ve lost both Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn on top of numerous players, though this team still has a foundation for sustainable success.
It’s clear they need to make improvements though. The secondary, in particular, was already relatively poor even before factoring in losing Carlton Davis.
In a surprising turn of events, one All-Pro cornerback whom the Lions previously tried to acquire is now available ahead of the NFL Draft.
Former Lions Target CB Jalen Ramsey Suddenly Available for Trade From Dolphins
According to Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, the Miami Dolphins and superstar corner Jalen Ramsey have mutually agreed to seek a trade. A three-time All-Pro and seven-time Pro Bowler, Ramsey is justifiably considered to be one of the best defenders in the league and would instantly transform this defense as a perfect complement to the secondary.
The Lions were reportedly interested in Ramsey before he was initially traded to Miami. Former defensive backs coach Aubrey Pleasant is now with Ramsey’s previous team, the Los Angeles Rams, so there’s at least some sort of connection there that could be utilized. Kerby Joseph is a star at safety, but there’s no denying that Ramsey would immediately become the best corner on the roster.
He graded 16th out of 222 qualified cornerbacks at Pro Football Focus in 2024, so even at age 30, he’s still got plenty of gas in the tank. Ramsey is in the middle of a three-year, $72 million contract, meaning Detroit would likely need to get creative to fit the salary, though it seems possible. The Lions have just over $42 million in cap space per OvertheCap, suggesting there’s enough room to make it work if the two sides could agree to a deal.
It’s unclear whether general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell are still interested in Ramsey but if they are, he’d give Detroit the edge on paper in the NFC. Aidan Hutchinson needs another star to make his life easier and Ramsey would serve exactly that purpose.