Despite signing him to a contract extension, the Detroit Lions may likely trade defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike before the 2025 season. According to a report, defense was one of the most important components for the Lions to upgrade, but they ton of talent that may prevent Onwuzurike from succeeding. Originally selected in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Lions made an investment on the former Washington product to stay at least for one more year, but there’s a chance they could trade him to fetch some draft capital. The Lions have plenty of depth on the interior of the defensive line after drafting Tyleik Williams while having D.J. Reader and Roy Lopez as capable run-stuffers.
It’s hard to imagine that Onwuzurike will get much production since many of the talented defenders are ready to make an impact. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson is training this offseason back to his old self, so that’s just another trenches guy that may get the majority of the attention on this line. Onwuzurike fits perfectly well, but when it comes to the numbers game, there’s no realistic path for him to stay on the roster beyond the one-year contract he signed. It shouldn’t be surprising if the Lions make him available for a trade, being that he’s on a one-year deal instead of a multi-year contract, as he’s solid in rotation.
Detroit might get a day three pick at best, and these five teams should be ready to swing an offer.
Breaking: Lions Could Trade Former Second Rounder Levi Onwuzurike – 5 Potential Teams
Possible Destinations
Los Angeles Chargers
If anyone knows how to bring out the best in a run-stuffer, it’s head coach Jim Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. They are hoping to bring that out of Da’Shawn Hand after signing him this offseason, despite losing Poona Ford, who surprised many in the league. Levi Onwuzurike could be a solid addition to this defensive pass rush and pair with Teair Tart to open the gaps, so veteran Khalil Mack can run in the middle to pressure the quarterback.
Baltimore Ravens
However, the Ravens know how to excel with a physical as well. Broderick Washington and Travis Jones haven’t been shining like they would like, so they could use another defensive lineman after signing Yannick Ngakoue last year as temporary relief. Onwuzurike could tag with Nnamdi Madubuike to disrupt the middle and give some relief for Roquan Smith and Kyle Van Noy to ram the line.
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys never fail to get a capable defense in the right spots. Despite losing Demarcus Lawrence, the Cowboys could use a guy like Onwuzurike to help Osa Odighizuwa open the gaps. Dante Fowler Jr. returning means good news for the team, looking for sacks more often, and the addition of Onwuzurike could make it even fiercer.
Kansas City Chiefs
The same can be said about the Kansas City Chiefs. They’re in the best place when it comes to the trenches unit. Even though they signed Charles Omenihu just on a one-year deal, they could extend Levi Onwuzurike to a long-term contract if he excels in this unit. Chris Jones is the league’s best defensive tackle, but even the greats need assistance in situational moments.
Carolina Panthers
Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers focused last offseason on building an offense for quarterback Bryce Young. Now, they upgraded their defense, signing Tershawn Wharton to assist Derrick Brown to give Young more chances on the field. Levi Onwuzurike would be no different could turn this defensive line from good to great.
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