The Detroit Lions came painfully close to a Super Bowl appearance in 2023. Could another superstar on the offense prevent a similar fate in 2024?
Detroit’s passing attack was among the best in the National Football League last season, led by resurgent veteran quarterback Jared Goff and rising superstar receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. But all that, plus a fantastic ground game, still couldn’t get the Lions past the San Francisco 49ers.
After squandering a 17-point lead to the 49ers in the NFC Championship Game, the Lions are out for revenge. But in an unexpected twist of fate, the Lions may also have the chance to make a blockbuster trade with those same 49ers.
San Francisco has been at a crossroads with star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk for several weeks now. And according to one writer, the Lions could be the team to swoop in and acquire Aiyuk to build their own version of a juggernaut offense.
Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report listed the Lions among the teams who make the most sense for an Aiyuk trade if the receiver reconsiders his options.
“Sure, the Lions already have Amon-Ra St. Brown,” Gagnon said. “But this is a rare moment in which the championship window is open in Detroit, and there’s plenty of room within that offense for both star receivers to get significant work.”
Aiyuk, 26, put up career numbers in 2023, totaling 1,342 receiving yards and garnering second-team All-Pro recognition. He and St. Brown would form the most formidable receiving duo in the league, giving offensive coordinator Ben Johnson unlimited options in passing situations.
Any Aiyuk trade appears to be contingent on a long-term extension, which would be a financial strain for the Lions and pretty much any NFL team. Aiyuk is set to make $14.1 million for San Francisco this season, but reportedly seeks at least double that figure in annual salary.
As of now, there is no reported discussion between the Lions and 49ers on an Aiyuk trade. But this is the NFL in 2024, so a move is always lurking around the corner when we least expect it.
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