A perfect Lions trade candidate at CB is now off the market

It’s a curious move, given that the Browns’ cap space is limited. Newsome was in the final year of his deal, so it made sense to trade him in order to get something for someone unlikely to re-sign. It was one of the reasons why many felt he was a good trade candidate for the Lions. However, Campbell is currently in the middle of a four-year deal that averages $19,125,000 and ends in 2028. The Browns must be confident that Campbell can secure the CB position going forward, because Campbell's deal could weigh them down in the future.

For the Jags, the move does clear up cap space after their surprising 4-1 start. This can give them financial flexibility for future moves, whether during the season or afterward. Newsome provides a slight upgrade at the position, while possibly getting a CB that’s more suited for the Jaguars' new defense scheme under head coach Liam Coen.

Campbell has played in five games this season, starting all five. He has six pass deflections and one forced fumble. Campbell also has 34 combined tackles. On the surface, these numbers appear superior to Newsome’s in the same number of games. Newsome only has three pass deflections with no forced fumbles and 23 combined tackles. Yet, Pro Football Focus favors Newsome, as Newsome has an overall grade of 63.9 (59th among CBs) while Campbell is at 56.6 (109th among CBs).

Lions will have to look elsewhere if they want to trade for a CB

Newsome now being off the board may be frustrating to hear for Lions fans. The Lions have struggled to keep their secondary healthy with both starting CBs, D.J. Reed and Terrion Arnold, missing time. The earliest Reed can return is Week 10 against the Washington Commanders, but the fate of Arnold remains a mystery.

Arnold’s status going forward has caused whiplash as, in a matter of hours, he’s gone from possibly being out for the season to possibly returning this month. Head coach Dan Campbell has been mum on Arnold’s status, as they’re in wait-and-see mode. See how his shoulder and its swelling progress before deciding. It’s notable that Arnold has yet to be placed on the IR as of Wednesday's roster moves.

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Where does this leave the Lions? It’s unclear if general manager Brad Holmes is eying a trade for a CB. The recently signed Tre Flowers has already seen playing time, while the team also just picked up veteran Arthur Maulet to the practice squad. Even if the plan was to acquire Newsome, the Lions were unlikely to match the Jaguars' offer of a young CB with years remaining on his deal.

Until the news breaks, it’s best to assume the current plan is to weather the storm. Reed and Arnold should be back this season, so the approach will likely be similar to the pass rush. For the sake of everyone’s anxiety, hopefully, a CB will rise up like Al-Quadin Muhammad has for the pass rush. The secondary is really going to need it with the difficult slate of games to come.