The Detroit Lions could still be in the market for a pass rusher before the NFL trade deadline, and one of the top names who could realistically be available is Bradley Chubb of the Miami Dolphins.
Detroit’s defensive front has only generated four sacks in two games, far behind the Green Bay Packers (9) and the Minnesota Vikings (5). Adding a proven playmaker like Chubb would instantly raise the team’s pass-rushing ceiling.
Bradley Chubb by the Numbers
Career (2018–2025): 65 games, 42.5 sacks, 15 forced fumbles, 159 QB hurries, 53 QB hits
Best Season (2023, Miami): 11 sacks, 6 forced fumbles (led the NFL), before tearing his ACL in December
2025 (through 3 games): 3 sacks, 3 tackles for loss, 3 QB hits
The former No. 5 overall pick in 2018 has consistently shown he can wreck game plans when healthy, and his early 2025 form suggests he has returned to that level.
Durability vs. Dominance
Health is the biggest caveat with Chubb. He missed time in 2019 with an ACL tear, underwent ankle surgeries in 2021, and suffered another knee injury in late 2023. Despite the setbacks, at 29 years old, he’s already proving he can still dominate one-on-one matchups.
Contract Situation
Chubb is under contract through 2027 after signing a five-year, $110 million extension with Miami in 2022. Because of contract restructuring, his 2025 cap hit is just $12.3 million, which is very manageable for a starting-caliber pass rusher at a premium position.
Why Miami Might Listen
The Dolphins are 0–3 to start the season and could look to reset their roster. With Jaelan Phillips and first-round pick Chop Robinson in place as long-term pieces on the edge, Chubb could be one of the first veterans they shop to stockpile draft picks.
Proposed Trade Package
A deal that could work for both sides:
Lions receive: EDGE Bradley Chubb
Dolphins receive: 2026 third-round pick, DT Roy Lopez, conditional 2027 fifth-rounder (upgraded to a fourth if Chubb records 8+ sacks or plays 60%+ snaps in 2025).
This way, Detroit secures a proven rusher without giving up a high Day 2 pick, while Miami gets depth for the interior defensive line and future draft capital.
Why It Makes Sense
Aidan Hutchinson is one of the NFL’s brightest young defenders, but the Lions still need a consistent second threat to prevent teams from double-teaming him. Slotting Bradley Chubb opposite Hutchinson would give Detroit one of the most dangerous pass-rushing tandems in the NFC.
While the injury history makes it a gamble, the upside of adding a player of Chubb’s caliber could be exactly what GM Brad Holmes needs to give Detroit a championship-caliber defense.
