The Detroit Lions enter the 2026 NFL offseason with one thing on their mind: finding another difference-maker on defense. In a new mock draft scenario inspired by Mike Payton of A to Z Sports, the Lions pull off not one… but two major draft-day trades, including a stunning move for former No. 5 overall pick Kayvon Thibodeaux.
And yeah, this one would get the league talking.
Trade No. 1 — Lions Trade Down With the Raiders
The Lions don’t currently hold a third-round pick, so step one in this mock was simple: move back and add more draft capital.
Proposed trade with the Chargers
Lions get: 22nd and 54th picks
Chargers get: 17th pick, 228th pick, and 255th pick
Payton then has the Lions trading the No. 54 pick to the Raiders.
Proposed trade with the Raiders
- Lions receive: Picks 65 and 101
- Raiders receive: Pick 54
Sliding back gives Detroit a high Day-2 selection along with another fourth-rounder, extra ammunition for what comes next.
Trade No. 2 — Blockbuster Deal Brings Kayvon Thibodeaux to Detroit
This is where things get spicy.
The mock draft has Detroit flipping their newly-acquired No. 65 pick to the Giants… in exchange for EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux, the former No. 5 overall selection.
Proposed trade:
- Lions receive: Kayvon Thibodeaux
- Giants receive: Pick 65
For weeks, Payton has argued that the Lions’ best path to landing a premier pass rusher isn’t the draft, it’s the trade market. In this scenario, Detroit makes the call and pulls the trigger.
And honestly? It makes a lot of sense.
Why This Move Fits the Lions’ Philosophy
Detroit isn’t just adding a talented edge rusher, they’re securing:
- A young, high-ceiling defender
- With full contractual control through 2026
- PLUS leverage on his future extension
Instead of gambling on a rookie, Brad Holmes lands a player who is:
- Already proven at the NFL level
- Still entering his prime
- A perfect running mate opposite Aidan Hutchinson
Dan Campbell wants dogs on defense, and Thibodeaux fits the culture.
What This Means Going Forward
This type of move signals one thing loud and clear:
The Lions believe their championship window is open.
Detroit would be loading up defensively while maintaining flexibility across the rest of the draft. With extra picks still in hand, the roster can continue to build balance and depth.
And if Thibodeaux reaches his ceiling in Detroit?
Look out.
Bottom Line
Mock drafts are fun… but this one feels dangerously realistic.
The Lions:
- Add draft capital
- Flip it for a proven defensive playmaker
- Strengthen a key weakness
- And keep long-term control in-house
If Brad Holmes ever actually pulled this off, it would instantly qualify as one of the most aggressive and exciting moves of the Campbell era.
Jeff Bilbrey
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