Titans’ DE Arden Key Attracting Trade Interest; Updates on Lions’ EDGE Search
The Cardinals have shown interest in Giants’ player Azeez Ojulari, but their search for a pass rusher doesn’t stop there. According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Arizona has also contacted the Titans to discuss a trade involving defensive end Arden Key.
Key, 28, has a contract through 2025 with a $6.5 million salary for next season, which is relatively affordable. While the 1-6 Titans are expected to be sellers at this year’s trade deadline, they don’t need to part with Key unless they receive a favorable offer.
Despite New York setting a high asking price for Ojulari, which could raise Tennessee’s leverage in Key talks, Big Blue is unlikely to get more than a Day 3 pick for Ojulari. Key, initially a third-round pick by the Raiders, struggled early in his career but found his role as a reliable edge defender with 11 sacks and 32 quarterback hits over 2021 and 2022, while playing for the 49ers and Jaguars.
His performance led to a three-year, $21 million contract with the Titans in the 2023 offseason, where he posted six sacks and 12 QB hits in his first season in Nashville. So far this year, Key has recorded three sacks and six QB hits in seven games, earning a solid 70.3 pass rush grade from Pro Football Focus.
The 4-4 Cardinals, who are unexpectedly near the top of the NFC West, have dealt with numerous injuries along the defensive line. GM Monti Ossenfort confirmed he has been exploring deals to strengthen the team’s pass rush.
In late October, Lions head coach Dan Campbell hinted at potential moves to bolster Detroit’s EDGE group, as both Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport are out for the season. Armando Salguero of Outkick.com mentioned Key as a possible option for the Lions, and Key’s recent performance against Detroit – two sacks and six tackles – likely caught their attention.
The Lions are also reportedly interested in the Browns’ Za’Darius Smith, with both Russini and ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirming Detroit’s inquiries. Salguero additionally listed the Panthers’ Jadeveon Clowney and Saints’ Chase Young as other potential targets for the Lions.