As the NFL trade deadline approached, the playoff-contending Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders made significant moves to strengthen their defenses. The Commanders, currently leading the NFC East with a record of 7-2, acquired four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the struggling New Orleans Saints, who sit at 2-7. This trade aims to bolster Washington's secondary as they look to maintain their position at the top of the division. Meanwhile, the Lions secured a key addition to their defensive line by trading for defensive end Za’Darius Smith from the Cleveland Browns. This move is expected to enhance Detroit's pass rush as they aim for a playoff spot. In addition to these trades, the injury-riddled Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers also made moves to acquire new receivers, further intensifying the competition as teams gear up for the final stretch of the season.