By Sunday 
Are the Lions about to bring a hometown hero into the den? Or are they sticking with the cubs they’ve been raising? That’s the question buzzing around Allen Park as Detroit preps for its Hall of Fame Game debut against the Chargers.
And right in the middle of it all: Matthew Judon.
🚨 Judon on the Radar
Judon isn’t just another free agent. He’s a Michigan native. A Grand Valley State product. And, oh yeah — a four-time Pro Bowler who’s tormented quarterbacks from both Baltimore and New England. He’s done it with sacks (12.5 in 2021, 15.5 in 2022), grit, and surprising versatility. The man’s dropped into coverage almost as much as he’s hunted QBs.
After a bicep tear shortened his 2023 campaign and a quiet stint in Atlanta, Judon might just be looking for the right place to write his next chapter.
Could Detroit be it?
🦁 Dan Campbell’s Not Rushing It
Lions head coach Dan Campbell isn’t jumping at the chance just yet. He’s got his eyes locked on the players already in-house — and wants to see what the young edge rushers can do before calling in the veterans.
“We want to let these guys battle,” Campbell hinted, choosing development over headlines — at least for now.
💥 All Eyes on the Hall of Fame Game
Rookie Ahmed Hassanein, along with Nate Lynn, Isaac Ukwu, and Mitchell Agude, will be under the spotlight when Detroit takes on L.A. next Thursday. None of these guys are over 26. And this is their shot to show they can handle real NFL snaps — not just drill reps and press hype.
If they ball out? The Lions might just roll into the season with youth and upside.
If they flinch? Judon’s phone might ring.
🏁 It’s a Test. Not Just for the Rookies—But for the Front Office
What happens next isn’t just about defensive ends — it’s about philosophy. Are the Lions a team that doubles down on homegrown talent? Or one that brings in big guns when it’s go-time?
Whatever the decision, it’s clear that the Lions — and their fans — are walking a tightrope on the edge of a decision.