The Detroit Lions find themselves in a unique position, sitting on the brink of a championship run but facing pressing roster issues that could derail their season. As of the 2025 NFL season, injuries have significantly impacted the Lions’ defense, particularly in the secondary. With both starting cornerbacks, Terrion Arnold and D.J. Reed, sidelined for the long term, Detroit finds itself in urgent need of reinforcements.

According to ESPN and Pro Football Focus, the Lions still have strong aspirations for the Super Bowl. Still, to maintain pace with NFC contenders like Tampa Bay, San Francisco, and Philadelphia, they must act swiftly before the November 4 trade deadline.

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At the top of Detroit’s wish list should be cornerback Riq Woolen from the Seattle Seahawks. Once one of the league’s most promising young defensive backs, Woolen’s playing time has been reduced in Seattle due to scheme changes and added competition. Entering the final year of his contract, he could be a realistic and affordable trade option. His combination of size, length, and speed would give the Lions the kind of press-man defender they desperately need in Kelvin Shepard’s system.

Right behind Woolen, Cleveland Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II is another reliable option. The Browns, struggling in a competitive AFC North, might be open to dealing the defensive back. Newsome brings solid experience and a proven ability to hold up in single coverage, traits that would instantly help stabilize Detroit’s secondary. Adding both Woolen and Newsome would give the Lions a credible, dynamic cornerback duo capable of containing top NFC receivers when it matters most.

The front office should not stop at cornerback. Another area of focus must be finding one more edge rusher to support Aidan Hutchinson. The Lions’ defensive line remains a strong unit, but opponents have increasingly shifted protection toward Hutchinson, limiting his impact. The best move might be a blockbuster trade for Travon Walker from Jacksonville. Walker has recorded back-to-back double-digit sack seasons and remains under contract, which would provide long-term security.

If Jacksonville falters before the deadline, Brad Holmes should make an aggressive push. Another name frequently associated with Detroit is Bradley Chubb of the Dolphins, a player whose name often surfaces in trade rumors but has yet to be moved. While Chubb would be a strong addition, the Lions might prefer pursuing younger options, such as Travon Walker, for both immediate and future value.

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The Lions’ salary cap flexibility makes these moves possible, and General Manager Brad Holmes needs to jump on a move because this is the Lions’ year. With the trade deadline rapidly approaching, the message is clear: the time is now for the Detroit Lions. Acquiring two cornerbacks and one premier edge rusher could turn this season into a legitimate Super Bowl push.

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Seize the Lions’ Moment: Key Trades for a Championship Season