Former NFL GM’s Bold Pitch Leaves Panelists in Disbelief

As the 2024 NFL trade deadline approaches, speculation about potential moves is reaching a fever pitch. For the Detroit Lions, currently enjoying a promising season, fans and analysts alike are debating whether an edge rusher might help cement the team’s Super Bowl aspirations. While the Lions have options, former NFL general manager Mike Tannenbaum’s recent trade proposal on ESPN’s Get Up has set social media ablaze with reactions—and plenty of disbelief.

Tannenbaum’s “Shocking” Proposal

On Get Up, Tannenbaum laid out a scenario he claimed would push the Lions over the top: trading three first-round picks, a second-round pick, and emerging running back Jahmyr Gibbs for Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett. Tannenbaum framed his idea with confidence, saying, “The Detroit Lions are gonna acquire Myles Garrett for three first-round picks, Jahmyr Gibbs, and a second-round pick… and the Detroit Lions are gonna win the Super Bowl.”

The proposal certainly raised eyebrows, with panelists reacting instantly to the bold suggestion. As Tannenbaum spoke, Ryan Clark rose from his chair in astonishment, while Bart Scott jokingly examined the former GM’s coffee cup for anything that could explain such a wild suggestion. Dan Graziano even humorously proposed that Detroit throw in local landmarks to sweeten the fictional deal.

A Massive Cost for an Unlikely Trade

Tannenbaum’s trade suggestion quickly became a hot topic of debate, especially given the massive haul it would require from the Lions. The idea of giving up three first-round picks and Gibbs—a core piece of Detroit’s offense—seemed extreme to most viewers and analysts. Although acquiring an elite player like Garrett might be tempting, the steep cost in both draft capital and an offensive asset makes such a trade difficult to justify.

Panelists were quick to critique Tannenbaum’s logic. Gibbs, the Lions’ promising young running back, has shown himself to be a key part of Detroit’s future. Bart Scott and Ryan Clark emphasized that Detroit has invested heavily in developing Gibbs and questioned the rationale of trading such a talent for a short-term win. According to Clark, “Jahmyr Gibbs is a foundational piece for the Lions—they shouldn’t entertain moving him, especially in a deal this lopsided.”

Is Garrett Worth the Gamble?

To many, the idea of Garrett joining the Lions isn’t totally outlandish—his defensive prowess would certainly elevate Detroit’s chances in the playoffs. Yet, Tannenbaum’s extreme proposal has little chance of materializing. Even if the Browns were open to parting with Garrett, they’d likely want a more measured offer. Two first-round picks might be enough to draw Cleveland’s interest, but three first-rounders and a second-round pick, plus Gibbs, takes the price tag beyond any realistic trade value.

This isn’t the first time Tannenbaum’s trade suggestions have left fans scratching their heads. His tenure as GM of the New York Jets saw its share of controversial draft picks and trades, leading fans to joke about “Tannenbaum logic” on social media. It seems this latest proposal will add another chapter to his long list of memorable—but impractical—ideas.

The Verdict: Panel Dismisses “Absurd” Trade Idea

In the end, Tannenbaum’s proposal for a blockbuster Garrett trade left the panel and fans in unanimous disbelief. Detroit is well-positioned for a strong season, and trading away so much future potential for a single player—even one as talented as Garrett—strikes many as unnecessary.

With just days left before the trade deadline, the Lions will certainly explore options to bolster their defense, but it’s doubtful they’ll heed Tannenbaum’s suggestion. Fans and analysts can likely agree that this “shocking” trade idea is better left on the drawing board.