With the NFL trade deadline approaching in just two weeks, teams are gearing up to make crucial decisions about their rosters. Contenders are looking to fill gaps as they pursue playoff spots, while struggling teams may consider offloading veterans for draft capital.

The wide receiver market has already seen significant movement, highlighted by the trades of Davante Adams from the Raiders to the Jets, and Amari Cooper from the Browns to the Bills.

The Chiefs also made a notable acquisition, bringing in DeAndre Hopkins after injuries to key players.

The Detroit Lions, currently leading the NFC North with a 5-1 record after a recent victory over the Minnesota Vikings, are among those teams looking to enhance their roster. Their offense has been performing well, with quarterback Jared Goff emerging as a legitimate MVP contender.

However, their defense has faced challenges, particularly with the loss of star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who is out for the season due to a broken leg.

Despite this setback, the Lions remain serious Super Bowl contenders and could seek to strengthen their lineup before the November 5 trade deadline. Here are two trades they should consider to improve their chances as the playoff race heats up in the NFC.

First, the Lions could target Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders. With the Raiders struggling and already in a selling mode after trading Adams, they might be open to dealing Crosby, who would significantly enhance Detroit’s pass rush.

The Raiders, facing a three-game losing streak and an injury to quarterback Aidan O’Connell, appear to be in a rebuilding phase. They could command a substantial return for Crosby, likely multiple first-round picks.

Crosby is a durable player, missing only one game in his career, and has excelled as both a pass rusher and run defender.

He boasts 33.5 sacks over the past 40 games and has led the NFL in tackles for loss in the last two seasons.

While the Lions might explore a deal for Myles Garrett from the Browns, it seems unlikely that Cleveland would part with their star defensive end, who has been a consistent force in the league.

If the Lions prefer a more attainable target, they could reach out to the New York Giants about Azeez Ojulari, who has recorded 20 sacks in 42 career games, or inquire if the New England Patriots might trade Josh Uche, who had 11.5 sacks last season.

Addressing their need for a pass rusher is essential for Detroit, and they are likely to be proactive in pursuing this.

Additionally, the Lions have made significant investments in their cornerback group, signing Carlton Davis III in free agency and drafting Terrion Arnold from Alabama.

Their defensive performance has improved, but adding one more reliable corner could elevate their play further.

The Lions have been employing man coverage on over 40% of opponent dropbacks, but inconsistencies have surfaced.

Arnold, while showing potential as a rookie, has also been one of the most penalized corners in the league.

The cornerback market features several young players on struggling teams who are likely to remain with their clubs. However, the Lions could consider Denzel Ward from the Cleveland Browns.

Currently in his seventh season, Ward has faced challenges but leads the league with 12 pass breakups and has recorded 15 career interceptions. With the Browns at 1-6 and now without quarterback Deshaun Watson for the season, they might be inclined to part with Ward.

Ward’s experience in a man-heavy defensive scheme would mesh well with what defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn is implementing in Detroit.

The Lions are in a strong position to make strategic moves before the trade deadline, aiming to solidify their roster for a deep playoff run.

Did you know that historically, mid-season trades can dramatically alter a team’s trajectory, often leading to unexpected playoff success?

This illustrates the importance of strategic decision-making during this critical period.