By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions nailed the 2025 NFL Draft, skillfully blending the need to load up on talent with filling key roster holes. Yet, one glaring issue still stuck out like a sore thumb to fans and analysts alike.
While drafting Tyleik Williams added much-needed firepower to the interior pass rush, it didn’t solve a major problem: Detroit still needs a proven edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson. The Lions only used one pick on an EDGE player — snagging Boise State’s Ahmed Hassanein late in the sixth round at No. 196 overall. Although Hassanein’s selection was historic, the reality is that sixth-round picks often come with uncertainty. It’s a risky bet to expect immediate impact from a late-round rookie.
Fortunately for Detroit, there’s a perfect solution sitting in free agency — but they’ll need to move fast before he’s snatched up.
Matthew Judon Should Be Detroit’s Top Post-Draft Priority
Matthew Judon is currently a free agent after finishing his contract with the Atlanta Falcons in 2024, and he’s exactly the kind of veteran presence Detroit needs to bolster its pass rush.
While some might hesitate because of Judon’s last two seasons, there’s still a lot to like. He’s only 32 years old and made the Pro Bowl four straight times from 2019 to 2022. Although a torn biceps sidelined him for most of 2023, it’s worth noting he started that year strong, racking up four sacks in just his first three games. His 2024 season wasn’t his best, following a trade to Atlanta, but one down year shouldn’t erase the impact he’s proven he can make.
Plus, history shows that edge rushers often age better than other positions, especially when used more strategically. At just a month older than Za’Darius Smith, Judon still has a few quality years left if managed properly.
Meanwhile, Detroit’s current depth at edge rusher leaves a lot to be desired. Marcus Davenport has only managed six games over the last two seasons due to injuries, and Al-Quadin Muhammad hasn’t shown the consistency needed to be a top option. The Lions simply can’t afford to overlook this need any longer.
Judon checks all the boxes: veteran leadership, proven production, and the motivation to bounce back. Now it’s up to the Lions to make the call — and they’ll need to act quickly before another team beats them to it.