The Detroit Lions struck gold in 2022 when they drafted Aidan Hutchinson, who quickly became a franchise cornerstone on defense. But finding a consistent partner for Hutchinson on the edge has proven challenging, with several attempts through the draft, free agency, and trades falling short of expectations.
Now, the Lions are predicted to target another high-upside edge rusher in the 2026 NFL Draft. Joe DeLeone of Pro Football Network projects Detroit will select Miami standout Rueben Bain Jr. in the first round. Bain is looking to bounce back after an injury-plagued 2024 and return to his dominant freshman form.
“His physical rushing style and relentless motor make him an ideal complement to Hutchinson,” DeLeone noted.
Sports Illustrated’s Mark Morales-Smith added that Bain could even rise into the top 10 picks if he delivers a strong season with the Hurricanes, describing him as a “6-foot-3, 275-pound explosive athlete who can disrupt both the pass and run.”
Lions May Reunite With Veteran Pass Rusher
While Detroit looks ahead to future draft options, the team could also make moves this offseason to shore up its current pass-rushing depth. The Athletic’s Colton Pouncy suggested the Lions might reunite with veteran Za’Darius Smith, who stepped in last season when Hutchinson was sidelined and led the team with 4.0 sacks over the final stretch.
Pouncy speculated that Detroit could be quietly staying in touch with Smith while he remains unsigned in free agency. He drew a parallel to last year’s signing of C.J. Gardner-Johnson, when the Lions waited out the market before striking a deal.
“The longer Smith goes unsigned, the more I wonder if the Lions are staying involved behind the scenes,” Pouncy wrote.
Whether through next year’s draft or a savvy free-agent signing, the Lions appear determined to find the perfect partner for Hutchinson and solidify their defensive front.
Detroit Looking to Add Explosive Pass Rusher, Could Bring Back Veteran Smith
