By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions are expected to explore upgrades for their defensive line this offseason. Pro Football Focus (PFF) has already named them a strong fit for veteran pass rusher Khalil Mack, a six-time Pro Bowler, as free agency looms next month.
In recent years, the Lions have typically avoided splurging in free agency, instead opting for cost-effective signings, often targeting players recovering from injuries or overlooked young talent. However, 2025 may mark a turning point as the team stands on the brink of serious Super Bowl contention. To take the next step, Detroit could consider investing in proven veterans to fill critical roles—particularly at edge rusher.
Mason Cameron of PFF highlighted Mack as a potential difference-maker for the Lions.
“The Lions may not hold quite as much cap space as the Commanders, but they do possess something others cannot offer: the opportunity to pair with another elite edge rusher, freeing up Mack for more one-on-ones. Mack and Aidan Hutchinson would be an enticing duo, boosting a pass rush that fell off a cliff when Hutchinson went down early in the 2024 regular season,” Cameron explained.
Mack, who will be 34 by the 2025 season, remains a capable force on defense. Despite recording only six sacks last year, he demonstrated his dominance in 2023 with 17 sacks. Whether the Lions make a more conservative move by targeting Mack or go after a high-profile player like Myles Garrett remains to be seen.
Lions Eyeing Haason Reddick as Another Option
Another name linked to the Lions this offseason is Haason Reddick, a versatile pass rusher who played for the New York Jets last year. Reddick initially made a name for himself with the Philadelphia Eagles before being traded to New York, where he missed the first six games of the season due to contract disputes.
Reports suggest that Lions general manager Brad Holmes inquired about acquiring Reddick at the trade deadline after Aidan Hutchinson suffered a season-ending injury. Cameron thinks Detroit should revisit that pursuit.
“Following a season-ending injury to Aidan Hutchinson, Lions general manager Brad Holmes reportedly checked to see if a deal could be reached to acquire the disgruntled Reddick. However, a trade never materialized, in part due to a clause in the original trade agreement that would require New York to send a 2026 second-round pick to Philadelphia if the Jets were to send Reddick back to the NFC. With Reddick slated to hit free agency and that no longer being a problem, Holmes may again try his luck at bringing in the former second-team All-Pro,” Cameron noted.
Although Reddick struggled in 2024, tallying only one sack in ten games, his previous success suggests a bounce-back year could be on the horizon. At 30 years old, he remains a compelling option for teams seeking a skilled pass rusher. In 2023, he recorded 11 sacks, showcasing his ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
Regardless of their final decision, the Lions have multiple avenues to strengthen their pass rush as they aim to solidify themselves as legitimate Super Bowl contenders.