Following a stellar 2023 NFL season, where the Detroit Lions achieved a notable 12-5 record and reached the NFC Championship Game, the team now confronts difficult decisions as they prepare for the 2024 offseason. In this analysis, we identify three players the Lions should consider trading to bolster their roster for the upcoming campaign: Tracy Walker III, James Mitchell, and Levi Onwuzurike. While each has contributed significantly to the team, strategic roster adjustments are necessary to ensure competitiveness in 2024.
The Lions’ Performance in 2023:
In 2023, the Detroit Lions experienced remarkable success, securing their first playoff berth since 2016 and clinching their division title for the first time since 1993. They advanced to the Wild Card round, marking their first playoff victory since 1991, and progressed to the NFC Championship Game. Despite a valiant effort, they fell short, losing 34-31 to the San Francisco 49ers and concluding their season.
Key contributors included quarterback Jared Goff, an improved defensive unit, and emerging rookies like Jahmyr Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, and Jack Campbell, under the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell. However, attention now turns to the offseason, signaling a potential period of sustained success for the Lions. Yet, addressing roster needs and navigating personnel decisions are paramount tasks.
Offseason Considerations:
While the Lions boast a youthful roster, facilitating fewer high-value veteran contracts, trading veteran safety Tracy Walker III is a viable option. Despite his leadership in the secondary, Walker’s role diminished in 2023, making him a candidate for cap space relief.
Defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike, who transitioned into a supplementary role, is another trade prospect, especially considering his limited defensive snaps in 2023 after returning from injury.
Though core players are unlikely to be parted with, the Lions may entertain offers for their late first-round draft pick to address any remaining roster gaps aggressively.
Here, we assess the potential cut candidates on the Detroit Lions’ roster as they prepare for the 2024 NFL offseason.
Tracy Walker III, S:
The Lions, in a favorable cap situation, may consider parting ways with safety Tracy Walker III. Despite his previous defensive contributions, his role diminished in the recent season, making his release a feasible option, freeing up significant cap space.
James Mitchell, TE:
To streamline salary commitments, tight end James Mitchell emerges as another potential cut candidate, given his limited offensive impact in recent seasons.
Levi Onwuzurike, DL:
Defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike, though promising, faces uncertainty due to his limited role and injury history, making him a possible candidate for release to alleviate salary constraints.
Looking Forward:
The Detroit Lions face critical decisions as they navigate roster cuts to optimize competitiveness for the 2024 NFL season. While each potential cut carries implications, strategic maneuvers are essential to position the team for sustained success in the future.