Detroit Lions Best Trade Offer for Pittsburgh Steelers Star Pass Rusher Could Finally Solve Team’s Biggest Defensive Weakness

The Detroit Lions are on the verge of becoming a true Super Bowl contender, but one glaring issue remains that could hold them back — a consistent, dominant pass rush presence opposite Aidan Hutchinson. While Hutchinson has blossomed into one of the league’s top young defensive stars, the Lions’ defense still lacks the game-wrecking edge rusher needed to pressure elite quarterbacks late in January.

That’s precisely why general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell have been actively exploring trade options to bring in a proven, disruptive force off the edge. Recent reports out of Pittsburgh suggest the Steelers may be willing to listen to trade offers for veteran pass rusher Alex Highsmith, an intriguing target for Detroit.

Highsmith, fresh off back-to-back seasons with at least 10 sacks, remains one of the most underrated defensive playmakers in the AFC. However, Pittsburgh’s front office, amid an organizational reset and looming cap concerns, might entertain offers for the 27-year-old if the return helps bolster their long-term roster flexibility.

For the Lions, acquiring Highsmith could represent the final piece of a championship-caliber puzzle. The price won’t be cheap, but Detroit possesses both the draft capital and roster depth to craft an aggressive offer capable of grabbing the Steelers’ attention.

So, what would the best trade offer from Detroit look like? Let’s break it down.

To pry Highsmith away from Pittsburgh, the Lions would likely need to start negotiations with a premium draft pick — think a second-round selection at minimum. Highsmith is still under contract through 2027 following the four-year, $68 million extension he signed last offseason. That long-term control, coupled with his prime production window, means Pittsburgh holds considerable leverage.

Detroit owns all of its future top draft picks, including a 2026 second-rounder, which could serve as the centerpiece of the deal. However, to sweeten the pot, the Lions would almost certainly need to include an additional asset — either another mid-round pick or a promising young player from their deep defensive rotation.

Here’s a trade package that makes sense for both sides:

Lions Receive:

• EDGE Alex Highsmith

Steelers Receive:

• 2026 second-round draft pick

• 2025 fourth-round draft pick

• DL Josh Paschal

Including Josh Paschal, a former second-round pick entering his third NFL season, gives the Steelers an immediate, cost-controlled defensive lineman with upside. Paschal has flashed versatility as an interior disruptor and rotational edge presence but hasn’t fully cemented himself as a cornerstone of the Lions’ defensive front. For Pittsburgh, adding him helps offset the loss of Highsmith while building out depth along their line.

The draft compensation — a 2026 second and a 2025 fourth — provides future flexibility for Pittsburgh, especially as they navigate potential roster transitions under new offensive leadership and address holes in other positional groups.

For Detroit, parting with those picks stings, but it aligns with their aggressive, win-now mindset. The Lions have stockpiled young talent through recent drafts, and with foundational stars like Hutchinson, Penei Sewell, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Brian Branch on rookie contracts, the franchise is built to contend immediately. Sacrificing future assets to shore up a critical weakness is the type of calculated risk contending teams must take.

Highsmith’s impact would be transformational for Detroit’s defense. Pairing him with Hutchinson gives the Lions one of the most formidable young pass-rush duos in football. It forces opposing offenses to pick their poison — double-team Hutchinson and leave Highsmith in favorable one-on-one matchups, or risk Hutchinson wrecking the pocket while Highsmith feasts on overwhelmed right tackles.

In 2023, Highsmith recorded 11 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, and 21 quarterback hits while earning recognition as one of the NFL’s most relentless edge defenders. His motor, technical refinement, and ability to set the edge in run defense perfectly complement Hutchinson’s explosive play style. Perhaps more importantly, Highsmith brings playoff experience from his tenure with the Steelers, adding another veteran voice to Detroit’s increasingly experienced locker room.

The Lions’ defensive struggles late in the 2024 season, particularly their inability to consistently pressure top-tier quarterbacks, were evident in their NFC Championship Game loss. Despite Hutchinson’s individual brilliance, Detroit’s pass rush often failed to generate game-changing plays when it mattered most. Adding Highsmith immediately elevates the unit’s ceiling and provides insurance against injuries or inconsistencies across the defensive front.

Financially, the move is feasible for Detroit. Highsmith’s contract carries reasonable cap hits over the next few seasons, aligning with the Lions’ window of opportunity while maintaining flexibility to extend core players. With Jared Goff’s restructured deal and prudent roster management, Detroit is positioned to absorb Highsmith’s salary without sacrificing future roster-building options.

Of course, Pittsburgh isn’t under any obligation to trade Highsmith. He remains an integral part of their defense, and unless the Steelers believe a significant retool is necessary, they may opt to retain him. However, the combination of cap realities, an evolving roster, and potential suitors like Detroit offering aggressive packages could shift their calculus.