The Detroit Lions are aiming to return to serious playoff contention in the 2026 season after a frustrating 2025 campaign that did not meet expectations.

Even so, there are still many reasons for optimism in Detroit. The offense continues to feature key playmakers such as Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Sam LaPorta. On the defensive side, impact players like Aidan Hutchinson and Brian Branch continue to anchor the unit.

Throughout the partnership between Goff and head coach Dan Campbell, Detroit’s offense has consistently been one of the team’s biggest strengths. With that in mind, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Lions looked to further load up on offensive talent. Vito Chirco of Sports Illustrated’s Lions coverage recently pointed out three players Detroit could consider acquiring through a trade during the 2026 NFL Draft.

Among the names mentioned was tight end Evan Engram, who currently plays for the Denver Broncos. Engram’s 2025 performance was somewhat underwhelming compared to expectations, which could make Denver more open to moving him rather than carrying his $14 million cap hit.

According to Chirco, Engram could represent a meaningful upgrade as Detroit’s second tight end. Brock Wright has been a steady contributor for the Lions but has rarely been a major receiving option. The team also added veteran Tyler Conklin earlier in the offseason, yet he managed only seven receptions during the 2025 season.

Engram, on the other hand, brings a more proven receiving résumé. The two-time Pro Bowl tight end has surpassed 600 receiving yards in four separate seasons. Pairing him with LaPorta, while Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams stretch the field at wide receiver, could create a very difficult matchup for opposing defenses.

With Engram nearing his 32nd birthday and entering the final year of his contract, the Broncos might not demand a significant return. A late-round draft pick or a minor pick swap could potentially be enough to bring him to Detroit—also known as the Motor City.

For a team with championship ambitions in 2026, adding an experienced playmaker at a relatively low cost is exactly the type of move contenders often look to make.