The Detroit Lions have maintained their status as one of the NFL’s youngest teams, and this fact helps explain why they were largely inactive at the trade deadline. They began the regular season with the 11th youngest roster, but a closer analysis by ESPN’s Bill Barnwell revealed that, in practical terms, they are even younger. Barnwell calculated the average age of the roster based on the players who are actually on the field, and after eight games, the Lions have the sixth youngest roster with an average age of 26.4.
This youth-oriented approach has significant implications for the trade deadline. It underscores the stage of development the Lions are in and their front office’s priorities. Firstly, with a 6-2 record and one of the youngest rosters in the league, it indicates that Detroit’s competitive window is just beginning and expected to last for a while. Secondly, it shows the team’s strong emphasis on youth and their confidence in their coaching staff to develop young talent.
In contrast, some of the teams that were active at the trade deadline, such as the Eagles and the 49ers, are among the four oldest teams in the league. This suggests that their competitive windows may be closing or becoming more limited, although the presence of Jalen Hurts at quarterback might provide some continuity for the Eagles.
Snap-adjusted age so far for 2023
Five oldest teams: Saints, Eagles, Broncos, 49ers, Raiders
Five youngest teams: Packers, Giants, Bears, Colts, Cardinals pic.twitter.com/T8CrN9gNNP
— Bill Barnwell (@billbarnwell) November 4, 2023
However, it’s important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to building a team. Different franchises employ various strategies, and in order to remain competitive over the years, team-building tactics may need to evolve.
One notable contender, the Kansas City Chiefs, shares a similar youth profile with the Lions as the seventh youngest team. Coincidentally, they were also relatively inactive at the trade deadline, making a modest trade for Mecole Hardman through a swap of late-round picks, similar to the Lions’ acquisition of Donovan Peoples-Jones.
In essence, the Lions’ inactivity at the trade deadline aligns with their long-term plan and commitment to prioritizing youth. General manager Brad Holmes and coach Dan Campbell have consistently emphasized their dedication to this strategy, and they have no intention of deviating from it. For a young and hopeful team in the early stages of their development, selling valuable assets for short-term gains does not align with their overall plan and vision.
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