By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions have received mixed reactions regarding their recent draft choices, but one pick is already drawing comparisons to a future franchise cornerstone.
Back in 2022, Detroit made a significant splash by selecting Aidan Hutchinson with the No. 2 overall pick. That decision has paid off tremendously, as Hutchinson quickly became a foundational piece on defense. However, finding a reliable running mate on the opposite edge has proven to be a persistent challenge. Over the years, the Lions have experimented with multiple options—from draft picks to free agents and even trading for veteran help—but no one has matched Hutchinson’s level of playmaking.
Now, a new prediction has surfaced suggesting that Detroit may take another swing at bolstering their edge-rushing unit in the upcoming NFL Draft. And this time, it might be a real game-changer.
Could Rueben Bain Jr. Be the Answer?
Joe DeLeone of Pro Football Network recently forecasted that the Lions would select Rueben Bain Jr., a standout edge rusher from Miami, in the first round of the next NFL Draft. Bain’s college career has been somewhat derailed by injuries, but the upside remains undeniable.
“Rueben Bain Jr. battled through injuries in 2024 and looks to return to his freshman-year form,” DeLeone wrote. “His physical rushing style and high motor are conducive to becoming a quality secondary rusher, opposite Aidan Hutchinson.”
Bain’s potential is so intriguing that some experts believe Detroit might not even get the chance to draft him.
Mark Morales-Smith of SI.com believes Bain could see his stock rise significantly with a strong season, possibly pushing him into the Top 10. That could place him out of Detroit’s reach unless they trade up or have an earlier-than-expected pick.
“The former four-star recruit has everything you look for in a stud edge rusher,” Morales-Smith said. “He’s 6’3, 275 pounds, long and explosive with an ability to dominate as a pass rusher and also defend the run well. After dealing with a calf injury last year, he will need to show why he was so great as a freshman, but there is little reason to doubt that he will do just that.”
Immediate Help May Also Be on the Horizon
While Detroit could invest a future first-rounder to solidify their edge-rushing unit, there may be more immediate help available—even from a familiar face.
Colton Pouncy of The Athletic recently floated the idea that Detroit could re-sign veteran Za’Darius Smith, who joined the team last season in a midseason trade when Hutchinson was sidelined. Although Smith didn’t replicate Hutchinson’s All-Pro impact, he did lead the team in sacks with 4.0 during the stretch run of the season—showing he still has gas left in the tank.
Pouncy speculated that the Lions may be playing the waiting game in free agency, much like they did with safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson.
“I’ll be honest, the longer Smith goes unsigned, the more I wonder if the Lions are letting him take his time and would like to remain involved,” Pouncy shared. “That’s sort of how they were able to land C.J. Gardner-Johnson. [Lions general manager Brad] Holmes told reporters he didn’t know if they’d be able to sign him, but was in contact with his agent throughout the process. When his market didn’t materialize the way he thought it would, Detroit was the landing spot. So, I do wonder if the Lions had a similar conversation with Smith.”
Whether the Lions take a long-term approach through the draft or opt for a short-term fix by bringing back a proven veteran, it’s clear the franchise understands the importance of giving Hutchinson some help. With playoff aspirations high and a talented roster in place, finding that second edge threat could be the final piece that elevates Detroit’s defense to elite status.