The Lions have had a lot to feel good about this offseason—Aidan Hutchinson is healthy again and ready to go after that scary leg injury, and excitement is building as OTAs ramp up. But while Detroit fans are looking ahead to the 2025 season, the team may have just let a golden opportunity slip right through their fingers.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the 49ers pulled off a sneaky-good trade with the Eagles to acquire edge rusher Bryce Huff for a mid-round pick. Not only is that a major win for San Francisco, it’s a bit of a gut punch for Detroit. Why? Because Huff could’ve been the ideal running mate for Hutchinson on the opposite side of the defensive line.
Huff had a breakout season with the Jets in 2023—10 sacks, 67 QB pressures, and 45 hurries—but didn’t quite live up to expectations after landing a three-year, $51 million deal with the Eagles. His 2024 numbers were underwhelming, and with his absence from Philly’s OTAs, the team decided to move on.
Still, it’s puzzling that the Lions didn’t even seem to make a move. San Francisco managed to restructure Huff’s deal to make the cap hit more manageable, so why wasn’t Detroit in those conversations? Even if Huff didn’t light it up last season, lining him up next to Hutchinson could’ve reignited the form that made him such a force two years ago.
There’s also the added sting of Huff going to the 49ers—arguably Detroit’s biggest threat in the NFC right now. With that recent playoff rivalry still fresh, it’s tough not to see this as a missed chance to strengthen the roster while keeping a dangerous defender away from a top rival.
If there’s a silver lining, it’s that Detroit still has time to find pass-rush help. But make no mistake—this was one they let get away.
While Lions Watched, 49ers Snatched Up Perfect Edge Rusher Fit
