Mike Valenti Suggests Lions Make Bold Trade for L'Jarius Sneed
The Detroit Lions proved that they are among the biggest contenders for a Super Bowl title in 2023.
With a large majority of their roster set to return next season, they will rightfully be viewed amidst the top teams in the league. A run to the NFC Championship game lit the fire, but the Lions must continue to add fuel in order to keep their positive momentum burning.
As a result, this offseason is a pivotal one for general manager Brad Holmes and his staff. With plenty of cap space, the organization is armed with the funds to acquire a standout talent.
One of the players who could be available is cornerback L'Jarius Sneed, who was recently franchise tagged by the Kansas City Chiefs. While he remains under contract with the organization, he has been granted the opportunity to seek a trade.
In the eyes of 97.1 The Ticket host Mike Valenti, the Lions should pick up the phone and make a move for the standout corner.
"Don't play this game with me, that we are somehow poor or if we paid L'Jarius Sneed we can not function or there wouldn't be money for Aidan, or what about Amon-Ra," Valenti said. "You're in a beautiful cap situation. So I want you to remind me again, here, talk into my good ear. Tell me why I shouldn't want the Lions to pick up the phone, offer pick 61 and offer five (years) at $95 (million total) for L'Jarius Sneed. Tell me why."
Holmes has earned plenty of good will for his performance in acquiring players, particularly in the NFL Draft. This has caused fans to be patient and trust his decision-making process.
However, Valenti argued that the Lions should capitalize on their current standing and make a move that could be extremely impactful.
"What the hell is this whole wait and see thing? That's not why we like sports. You know this show led the charge. You win the division, you win the playoff game," Valenti explained. "I also told you you probably weren't gonna like what came out of the speakers after the loss to San Francisco, which is the following. We are in a Super Bowl window, which means you've got to do Super Bowl things."
Detroit struggled mightily at the cornerback position in 2023. Cam Sutton had difficulties containing opposing top wideouts, and the team shuffled through a number of options at the spot opposite him.
As a result, cornerback is viewed as a significant need for the team. Valenti stated that Sneed's experience playing in Steve Spagnuolo's blitz-heavy scheme would translate well with Aaron Glenn's system, and his shut-down prowess would lend a much-needed helping hand.
Sneed emerged as one of the best cornerbacks in the league in 2024 and has 10 career interceptions in four NFL seasons. He put forth an excellent effort in the postseason, proving he is capable of being a shutdown corner.
"Every week, you can put Sneed on the other team's number one. Every week, he's essentially gonna take them out of the game," Valenti said. "It's gonna help your pass rush, because look, quarterbacks are gonna have to go to their second and third read. It's gonna allow you to help Sutton, make him better and you can still go into this draft and draft another corner. Bring an understudy along."
