Detroit Lions Linked With $14M Bengals Star To Address Defensive Gaps
CINCINNATI, OH - DECEMBER 14: Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle T.J. Slaton Jr. 98 reacts during the game against the Baltimore Ravens and the Cincinnati Bengals on December 14, 2025, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, OH. Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA DEC 14 Ravens at Bengals EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon251214116
CINCINNATI, OH - DECEMBER 14: Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle T.J. Slaton Jr. 98 reacts during the game against the Baltimore Ravens and the Cincinnati Bengals on December 14, 2025, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, OH. Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA DEC 14 Ravens at Bengals EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon251214116
The Detroit Lions are still shaping their roster after the draft, and a key issue remains. According to NFL analyst Christian Booher, the team could now turn to the trade market. Instead of relying on rookies, the team could go for a defensive tackle on the Cincinnati Bengals roster.
SI.com’s Booher believes the Lions could target T.J. Slaton, who signed a two-year contract worth $14.1 million with the Cincinnati Bengals in March 2025.
“On the other hand, they are lacking some depth on the defensive line after losing Roy Lopez and electing not to re-sign DJ Reader,” Booher wrote.
His statement points to a clear concern for Detroit. The Lions added edge rushers like Derrick Moore and Tyre West, giving Aidan Hutchinson more support on the outside. However, the inside still needs a strong presence.
CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 07: Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle T.J. Slaton Jr. 98 leaves the field following the National Football League game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025, at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, OH. Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA SEP 07 Bengals at Browns EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon250907109
CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 07: Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle T.J. Slaton Jr. 98 leaves the field following the National Football League game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns on September 7, 2025, at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, OH. Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA SEP 07 Bengals at Browns EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon250907109
“In terms of options on the trade market, one name that is eye-catching is Cincinnati Bengals interior defensive lineman T.J. Slaton," the analyst further wrote. "The Bengals have made some additions over the course of the offseason, and as a result, Slaton could be a player they’re willing to move.
The 6-foot-5, 340-pound tackle is coming off a strong season with 52 tackles, 3.0 sacks, and seven quarterback hits.
Slaton’s contract also works in Detroit’s favor. He is set to earn $5.72 million with a $2.5 million bonus, making him a manageable short-term option.
As Detroit looks to complete its roster, a move like this could solve a key need, but the team has already started making changes in this area.
Lions Add Reinforcements as Defensive Unit Takes Shape
The Detroit Lions are already taking steps to strengthen their front. Even after the draft, they are bringing in players who can add size and experience before the season begins.
The team signed Jay Tufele, a former Jacksonville Jaguars draft pick, who has appeared in 46 games with seven starts during his career.
Tufele has recorded 56 tackles, one pass defensed, three tackles for loss, and 0.5 sacks. While he may not be a top name, he gives the team another option in rotation.
“The addition of Tufele will provide depth at a spot where the Lions’ ranks thinned this offseason,” analyst Scout Springgate noted.
The unit also includes young players like defensive tackle Skyler Gill-Howard and defensive lineman Tyre West. The young players bring in energy, as an undrafted free agent and a seventh-round pick, respectively.
As the offseason moves forward, the Detroit Lions are expected to be working to build a balanced defense. Whether through a trade or signings, the focus remains on getting the right mix before the new season begins.
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Written by
Anjali Thakur
Edited by
Aadesh Dhote