The Detroit Lions have struggled to find a consistent edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, faltering in both the NFL draft and free agency. This has led many to believe the Lions are a top contender to acquire Cleveland Browns star Myles Garrett, who is reportedly seeking a trade and a Super Bowl contender for his next team. However, a legendary NFL general manager has a cautionary message for the Lions regarding the potential consequences of such a trade.

Lions Face High Cost for Myles Garrett Former NFL executive Bill Polian sees both risks and rewards for the Lions if they pursue Garrett. In an interview with the Detroit Free Press, Polian warned that acquiring the former NFL Defensive Player of the Year could come at a steep price, possibly costing multiple first-round draft picks. Given the Lions’ success in the draft, Polian cautioned that giving up significant draft capital for Garrett could be risky.

“Teams that draft well are not eager to part with their picks, because they have a way of turning those picks into quality players,” Polian stated.

Polian, a six-time NFL Executive of the Year, knows what it takes to build a championship-caliber roster. He guided the Buffalo Bills to four Super Bowl appearances and led the Indianapolis Colts to another two, including a victory in Super Bowl XLI.

Despite the Lions’ impressive 15-2 record in the regular season, they faced a tough playoff exit, losing to the Washington Commanders in the divisional round. Polian emphasized that it would take more than just Garrett to secure a Super Bowl title.

“But you’re never one player away,” Polian added.

Lions Seek Edge Rush Help Whether or not they pursue Garrett, the Lions are expected to strengthen their pass rush in the offseason. The team struggled to generate consistent pressure after Hutchinson suffered a season-ending leg injury in October, with no other player coming close to his 7.5 sacks on the season.

Christian Booher of SI.com suggested that the Lions could find an edge rusher in the NFL draft, with Georgia’s Mykel Williams being a potential target at No. 28 overall.

“In terms of play style, Williams seems like a good fit for Detroit’s defense under new coordinator Kelvin Sheppard,” Booher wrote. “Williams’ sack numbers in college were modest, with 14 total sacks over three seasons at Georgia, but his physicality and athleticism should translate well to the next level.”

Though Williams is still developing, Booher argued the Lions could be the right team to help him reach his potential.

“Williams is also young for a prospect, not turning 21 until June,” Booher continued. “While some aspects of his pass rush need refinement, his age and potential make him an appealing prospect.”