Detroit Lions’ EDGE Rusher Situation: Who’s Staying, Who’s Going?
The Detroit Lions are heading into the 2025 offseason with some big questions at EDGE rusher. While Aidan Hutchinson remains the cornerstone of their pass rush, his season-ending leg injury in Week 6 exposed the team’s lack of depth. Despite playing just five games, Hutchinson still led the team with 7.5 sacks, but Detroit will need reinforcements if they want to keep their defense competitive.
The Lions took a swing at solving their pass-rushing woes midseason, acquiring Za’Darius Smith from the Browns. He recorded four sacks in eight games, making him the team’s second-most productive pass rusher in 2024. However, Smith’s contract could be an issue—if Detroit doesn’t cut him before March 15, they could owe an extra $5.25 million in 2026, even if he’s no longer on the roster.
Beyond Hutchinson and Smith, Josh Paschal played a big role, starting 10 games and contributing two sacks, 22 QB hurries, and 31 pressures. Al-Quadin Muhammad came off the practice squad and impressed with three sacks and 24 pressures in nine games, but he’s set to hit free agency. The Lions also took a chance on Marcus Davenport, but he barely saw the field, playing in only two games before an elbow injury ended his season. He’s now an unrestricted free agent.
John Cominsky, a fan favorite, missed the entire season with a torn MCL and is also set to hit the market. Jonah Williams, who played two games in Detroit, is another free agent, while younger players like Mitchell Agude, Isaac Ukwu, and Nate Lynn are on cheap contracts but remain unproven.
With several key pieces set to hit free agency and no clear answer beyond Hutchinson, the Lions will likely target EDGE rushers in free agency or the NFL Draft. A strong pass rush was a key factor in the team’s 2024 playoff push, and upgrading the defensive front will be a major priority for GM Brad Holmes this offseason.
Detroit’s Sack Squad: The 2025 Contract Status of Lions’ EDGE Defenders
