Should Lions Pull Off Summer Blockbuster Trade for Quinnen Williams?

Should the Lions inquire about acquiring DT Quinnen Williams?

New York Jets defensive tackle Quinnen Williams is not anywhere close to signing a long-term extension with the team that made him the No. 3 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. 

According to ESPN, the two sides "aren't close to an agreement," as the talented defensive lineman has decided to skip voluntary offseason workouts. 

After coming off the best season of his young career, Williams is likely seeking a contract figure similar to Jeffrey Simmons, who secured a four-year, $94-million extension with the Tennessee Titans. 

In 2022, Williams earned a Pro Bowl nod and was named a first team All-Pro, as he secured 55 tackles, 12 sacks, one fumble recovery, four passes defended and two forced fumbles in 16 appearances. 

His ability to rush the quarterback, blow up run plays and regularly commanding double teams would make Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston's lives much easier in 2023. 

At 25-years-old, Williams could anchor the Lions defense for the foreseeable future, as the team looks to make a serious run to the Super Bowl. 

While it would likely cost a significant amount of draft capital and a long-term financial commitment, Detroit may just be the team that looks to alleviate the growing tensions between Williams and the Jets. 

In the past, general manager Brad Holmes has rejected the idea the team was one key piece away from serious contention. 

“We’ll be wise and smart and strategic in how we add, but again we don’t just spend big on getting a high-price guy,” Holmes explained following the conclusion of the 2022 season. “It’s got to be the right fit, and it’s got to be the right guy, and if it’s not the right guy then it doesn’t matter what the outside world thinks.”

A quick review of Williams' film should at least get Holmes picking up and phone and dialing Joe Douglas to see what it would cost to land one of the premier defensive tackles in the entire NFL.