Detroit Lions Top Contender To Trade For Star Cornerback This Offseason

There is speculation that the Los Angeles Rams will likely trade star cornerback Jalen Ramsey this offseason as they look to shed salary.

Despite several teams showing interest in acquiring Ramsey, the Detroit Lions have emerged as a top contender due to their general manager Brad Holmes' previous work in the Rams' front office, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.

However, it is uncertain if the Lions will pursue a trade for Ramsey, as they have historically prioritized building through the draft. Additionally, Ramsey is seeking a new contract, and the Lions may not be willing to part with significant draft capital and commit a large salary to a veteran player.

That being said, the Lions have two picks in the top-18 of this year's draft.

If Ramsey is traded, he would want a new contract. He currently has three years left on his current deal, and the Rams would have $19 million in dead money if they trade him before June. A post-June trade would leave only $8.2 million in dead money.

Despite concerns over his injury history, Ramsey did not miss a single game in 2022 and had a career year with 88 combined tackles, two sacks, and four interceptions.

Ramsey is widely regarded as one of the top shutdown corners in the league, and his potential availability has generated significant interest among teams in need of defensive help.

It remains to be seen if the Lions will pursue a trade for Ramsey and if any team will meet the Rams' reported asking price of a first-round pick. Photo Credit:  Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports