The Detroit Lions are looking to return to playoff contention in the 2026 season after failing to qualify in 2025.

Detroit reached the NFC Championship Game in 2023, but the next two seasons ended without the results the team had hoped for. Even though the roster still features plenty of talent, competition in the NFC North continues to intensify. Because of that, the organization may consider making a significant move during the offseason to strengthen the roster and push the team closer to a championship run.

Recently, Ralph Vacchiano of FOX Sports suggested one potential trade target for every NFC franchise. For Detroit, he pointed to standout defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons of the Tennessee Titans, who is preparing to enter his eighth NFL campaign.

Simmons has consistently ranked among the league’s most dominant interior defensive linemen. However, Tennessee introduced a new coaching staff this offseason, which could open the door for the veteran to consider joining a team with stronger championship aspirations.

While Vacchiano noted that the Titans likely prefer to keep Simmons, his contract situation could complicate things. The defensive tackle is expected to seek a new extension soon, and if Tennessee doubts it can retain him long term, trading him might become a realistic option.

As for a potential deal, Vacchiano proposed that Detroit might have to give up its 2026 first-round draft pick along with a second-round selection in 2027. That would represent a steep cost, but a rebuilding team like Tennessee—one with multiple roster needs—might view the draft capital as too valuable to pass up.

Simmons delivered an outstanding performance in 2025, recording 67 total tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks. The season earned him his fourth Pro Bowl nod and marked a new personal best in sacks.

Imagining a defensive front featuring Simmons alongside Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill would be intimidating for opposing offenses. Adding a player of Simmons’ caliber could transform Detroit’s defensive line and potentially elevate the team into legitimate Super Bowl contention.