Lions oddly named possible trade partner for $13 million 3-time All-Pro defender

The Detroit Lions' defense has been one of the better units in the NFL and has been an integral reason for the team's success in 2024. The group is allowing just 20.1 points and 98.4 rushing yards per game, both ranking in the top 10 in the league.

Detroit's secondary has taken a massive jump this season after being a weakness in 2023. Though the cornerbacks room, led by rookie Terrion Arnold and veteran Carlton Davis before his injury, has been impressive, the safety duo of Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch are the engines of the backend for the Lions.

Joseph snagged a league-leading nine interceptions during the regular season, while Branch posted a 90.0 run defense grade and a 72.3 passer rating when targeted. They formed arguably the best safety duo in football this year and both have been terrific Day 2 picks by general manager Brad Holmes.

Joseph and Branch are two young safeties who are cornerstone players for Detroit, but Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox believes the Lions are a potential trade destination for New Orleans Saints defensive back Tyrann Mathieu.

"Contending teams looking for a playmaker in the secondary should place calls about safety Tyrann Mathieu," Knox wrote. "While the 32-year-old isn't the Pro Bowl talent he once was, he was productive this past season."

"The Detroit Lions, who took a chance on Jamal Adams this season but ultimately parted ways, could be interested. Safety isn't a massive need for Detroit, but it will be interested in adding playmakers to its defense," Knox added.

Though Mathieu would be a solid depth acquisition after snagging three picks and knocking down seven passes in 2024, Brad Holmes shouldn't give up draft capital for a 32-year-old safety who is past his prime.

Though the three-time Pro Bowler is still a starting-level safety in the NFL, the Lions don't need one and can find depth at the position without giving up valuable draft choices. Detroit shouldn't trade for Tyrann Mathieu this offseason and should instead focus on getting an extension done with Joseph.