By Sunday 
Aidan Hutchinson is a beast. That much isn’t up for debate. He’s the Lions’ top predator off the edge — a relentless, swagger-filled, quarterback-seeking missile. But as the 2025 season inches closer, the real question in Detroit isn’t about Hutch. It’s about the guy who’s supposed to ride shotgun.
So who’s stepping up as his sack wingman this year?
Let’s break it down — injuries, hype, sleepers and all.
A Brief History of Second Fiddles
Dan Campbell’s Lions have had a bit of a rotating cast in the “#2 sacks guy” role. Last year it was Za’Darius Smith with 4.0. Before that? Alim McNeill with 5.0. A solid role — but far from dominant. Ideally, someone this year not only supports Hutchinson but threatens offenses.
So who’s really got a shot at that silver medal?
Marcus Davenport: The Buzz is Real
If this were a fantasy draft, Marcus Davenport would be skyrocketing up boards. He’s fast. He’s long. He’s a physical freak who had 9 sacks in 11 games just a few seasons ago. But what makes him especially dangerous now? The Hutch Effect.
With Hutchinson commanding double teams and wreaking havoc, Davenport’s job is simple: beat single coverage and feast. Coaches and teammates are already raving, and if his body holds up, he could easily punch in 6–8 sacks and give Detroit the 1-2 pass rush punch it’s lacked.
Dark Horses & Long Shots
- Al-Quadin Muhammad: Quietly productive and experienced. Not flashy, but steady. Think 4–5 sacks if given enough snaps.
- Ahmed Hassanein: The rookie with energy to burn. Don’t sleep on him — he had 22 sacks in his final two years at Boise State. Campbell already loves the guy’s motor.
- Derrick Barnes: It’s a long shot, but as a SAM linebacker, there’s some pass rush opportunity. His college tape says he’s got juice, but the role may not give him enough chances.
- Tyleik Williams & DJ Reader: Both big, nasty dudes in the middle. Great for collapsing pockets, but not necessarily sack collectors.
- Alim McNeill: Normally a solid candidate, but injury recovery may sideline his early season impact.
Our Pick: Davenport or Bust
If you’re putting money down today, Marcus Davenport’s your man. He’s in a system that will let him roam free, with a secondary that should force quarterbacks to hold the ball just long enough for him to get there.
He’s had elite pass rush win rates before. He’s healthy. He’s hungry.
And if Hutchinson is Batman, this could finally be his Robin.