Jamie Collins trade: 3 NFL landing spots to deal with Lions

Jamie Collins is on the trade block with the Detroit Lions, so which NFL teams could make a deal for the veteran linebacker early in the 2021 season?

It should have been expected that a Detroit Lions team with an eye on building for the future might have some veteran players end up going elsewhere in the NFL. And it does appear that veteran linebacker Jamie Collins could be the first man on his way out.

This week, Lions head coach Dan Campbell confirmed that Jamie Collins was on the trade block and that there were suitors. Though Collins isn’t an elite game-changer on the second level of the defense at this point in his career, he’s a solid presence that could help a team needy at the position shore up some quality depth.

Which NFL teams fit the bill as potential fits and landing spots for Jamie Collins? We have a few ideas.

3 Sensible Jamie Collins trade destinations for the Lions to work with

3. Cleveland Browns – The Browns knew that linebacker might be a sore spot in the defense early in the season while the likes of rookie Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah found his footing. So it’s hard to say that Collins wouldn’t be an upgrade over Mack Wilson or Malcolm Smith.

Yes, Cleveland is familiar with Collins as they acquired him on a handsome contract only to regret doing so. But with a different coaching regime (Re: A more stable regime), perhaps the veteran can play a wholly useful role for this defense early on.

2. Los Angeles Rams – It’s no secret that the Rams have used a proverbial stars and scrubs approach on defense and linebacker is an area that has suffered. As of right now, Kenny Young and Troy Reeder are the starters on the inside.

This is also a franchise that’s never afraid to make a big splash on the trade market. Thus, it would make perfect sense for them to upgrade a position of need, likely at a more reasonable price than they’re accustomed to paying.

1. Miami Dolphins – For as good as the Dolphins defense has been over the years, they haven’t looked that way early in the 2021 season. And the linebacker play of Jerome Baker and Elandon Roberts has been a big problem. Thus, someone familiar with the Patriots system, head coach Brian Flores, could look to get Collins in the fold.

Make no mistake, Collins isn’t going to immediately change Miami’s defense. With that said, having quality veteran depth is a good thing and the Dolphins need a shot in the arm.