As the NFL trade deadline quickly approaches, the Detroit Lions find themselves far out of the NFC North race as they are currently in last place. Jason Smith of NFL.com, has a few trade options for the Lions to equip quarterback Matthew Stafford with formidable targets on the outside. 

Steve Smith of the Carolina Panthers came to the writer's mind. His reasoning behind acquiring the controversial receiver, "Things are coming apart at the seams for the Panthers, who are going to need new blood to build around Cam Newton," said Smith in his evaluation of a possible deal.

He thinks the Panthers would be willing to move Smith as they are looking to surround Newton with younger power. A third pick, according to Smith, would settle the score. 

If getting Smith is not possible, Detriots' other option is wide out Brandon Lloyd of the New England Patriots, who has yet to fit into Bill Belichick's offense. Well it's either he doesn't fit or he is having a tough season. 

So far in 2012, Lloyd has 35 catches for 407 yards and just one touchdown in New England. 

Both of these guys would provide Stafford with targets he can use effectively as Smith writes, "Tight end Brandon Pettigrew can't be trusted, and neither can Titus Young, unless he's catching a Hail Mary pass." 

Despite not having trustworthy receivers in Detroit, Stafford has the Lions averaging the second highest total of yards through the air, so people are catching his passes, but Calvin Johnson could use more help on the outside.