The Detroit Lions are meeting high expectations through six games, boasting a 5-1 record after a thrilling 31-29 win against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 7. Currently, they sit firmly atop the NFC North and are emerging as serious Super Bowl contenders.
Despite having one of the most talented rosters in the NFL, head coach Dan Campbell’s team has its shortcomings, particularly in the pass-rushing department. The loss of Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport to season-ending injuries has significantly weakened this unit, making it essential for the Lions to find effective ways to apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks if they aim for a deep playoff run.
With the pass-rushing situation at a critical juncture, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox suggests looking at a struggling edge rusher as a potential solution. The former second overall pick, who has faced numerous injuries since entering the league, has managed only 18 sacks in his career. Now on his third team, he has yet to reach double-digit sacks in a single season.
While he may not be an elite pass rusher and has noticeable flaws, taking a chance on the 25-year-old could be a smart decision by general manager Brad Holmes.
This season, he has recorded two sacks and 27 quarterback pressures over 223 pass-rush snaps, indicating that he is having a reasonably solid year. Although he may never fulfill his pre-draft expectations, the Lions are in dire need of edge-rushing support, and he could offer adequate contributions.
Acquiring the former All-American shouldn’t be overly difficult, as a Day 3 draft pick should suffice to bring him to Detroit. Additionally, he is under a one-year, $13 million contract, presenting minimal financial risk for a potential trade.
While there are stronger options available, pursuing this edge rusher could prove to be a low-risk, high-reward move for the Lions.