The Detroit Lions are focused on strengthening their defense this offseason by providing star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson with much-needed support. Although Hutchinson emerged as a key defensive player, his season-ending leg fracture last October exposed the team’s lack of depth. After his injury, the Lions struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks, with no other player recording more than four sacks throughout the season.
One NFL analyst suggests that the Lions could address this issue through a trade for a proven edge rusher who may benefit from a fresh start.
Potential Trade with the Eagles
Moe Moton of Bleacher Report proposed that the Lions could trade for Philadelphia Eagles edge rusher Bryce Huff. Moton’s trade scenario involves the Lions offering a 2025 fourth-round pick and a 2025 seventh-round pick in exchange for Huff.
Moton highlighted that the Eagles signed Huff to a three-year, $51 million contract last offseason, but his performance was hampered by injuries and inconsistency. Huff missed five games due to injuries and had limited impact when available, recording 13 tackles, three tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and one forced fumble. Furthermore, Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio used Huff sparingly, as he played more than 47 percent of defensive snaps in just three of his 12 appearances. Notably, Huff was not active for Super Bowl LIX.
Given Huff’s limited role and performance, Moton believes the Eagles might be open to trading him at a reasonable cost. This would be an attractive option for the Lions, who lack a dependable edge rusher beyond Hutchinson. With Za’Darius Smith remaining unsigned and 2022 second-round pick Josh Paschal yet to make an impact, the Lions have few reliable options. Although Marcus Davenport re-signed with the team, his recent injury history—just six games played over the last two years—raises concerns about his durability. Moton argued that Huff could step in and become a starter opposite Hutchinson, improving the Lions’ pass-rushing capabilities.
Other Paths to Strengthen the Pass Rush
Beyond the potential trade for Huff, the Lions could also look to the 2025 NFL Draft to reinforce their defensive line. Josh Edwards of CBS Sports suggested the Lions might use their No. 28 overall pick to select Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M.
Stewart possesses impressive athleticism for his size, but his on-field production has been inconsistent. Edwards pointed out that Detroit could be an ideal environment for Stewart to develop while Hutchinson draws the primary focus from opposing offensive lines. This situation would allow Stewart to grow into a key contributor without the immediate pressure of being the team’s top pass rusher.
By either trading for Huff or drafting a promising prospect like Stewart, the Lions have options to strengthen their defensive front and support Hutchinson in the upcoming season.
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