The Detroit Lions are riding high after their fifth win of the 2024 season, securing a victory against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 7. However, despite their success, the team faces some significant concerns, particularly along the defensive edge. Both Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport, key players on the defensive line, have been ruled out for the season due to injury. While there is some optimism that Hutchinson might return if the team reaches the Super Bowl, the Lions need to focus on making it that far first.
To bolster their defense in the short term, FanSided’s Nick Villano has suggested that the Lions should pursue a trade for New England Patriots edge rusher Keion White. White, a second-round pick from 2023, has been quietly impressive this season. In just six games, he has accumulated four sacks and 22 pressures, already surpassing his stats from the previous year. At 6’5” and 285 pounds, White has the physical attributes and skill set the Lions are seeking to fill the void left by Hutchinson and Davenport’s injuries.
Not only has White demonstrated his potential on the field, but he also represents a long-term, cost-effective solution for Detroit. He is still under his rookie contract, making him a financially viable option for the Lions, who have already spent heavily on their core players. With Davenport’s future uncertain due to injury, White could be the ideal player to step in and fill that role, either temporarily or alongside Hutchinson when he returns.
However, while White is a perfect fit for Detroit, the challenge lies in convincing the Patriots to part with him. New England is currently struggling with a 1-6 record, indicating a rebuilding phase for the franchise. Given that White is young, talented, and on a relatively inexpensive contract, he is exactly the type of player the Patriots should want to retain as a cornerstone of their future. Trading him away would seem counterproductive unless they receive an offer too good to refuse.
Villano suggests that Lions general manager Brad Holmes should definitely express interest in White, but it’s unclear whether New England would be open to such a deal. For the Lions to acquire him, they might need to make a substantial offer, perhaps one that is too enticing for the Patriots to ignore. It would likely require a high draft pick or a package of valuable assets to pry White away from a team that views him as part of their long-term plans.
In conclusion, while trading for Keion White could significantly strengthen the Lions’ defensive line and help them remain competitive throughout the rest of the season, executing such a trade might prove difficult. The Patriots, despite their current struggles, may be reluctant to let go of a young, promising player like White. Nevertheless, if Holmes is able to make an offer that satisfies both sides, the Lions could be in an even better position to push for a deep playoff run.
