The Detroit Lions entered the season with questions surrounding their pass-rush rotation, and those concerns have only grown with Marcus Davenport sidelined due to injury.
The team confirmed that Davenport will not be available for Monday’s primetime clash with the Baltimore Ravens, leaving Aidan Hutchinson as the only proven threat off the edge. Detroit made limited moves to bolster the position this past offseason, but one analyst now believes the front office may need to explore external options — potentially targeting a former $45 million free agent.
Free Agent Market Presents Veteran Option
According to Jeff Risdon of USA Today’s Lions Wire, Al-Quadin Muhammad is expected to step into Davenport’s role. Muhammad, who recorded a sack in last week’s dominant win over the Chicago Bears, has experience as a starter and could provide short-term stability.
Still, Risdon suggested the Lions might have to look beyond their current roster if they want a more sustainable solution. The top name available on the open market is Carl Lawson, a 30-year-old edge defender.
“From a long-term perspective, the pickings are slim,” Risdon explained. “Carl Lawson is the best remaining option, but like Davenport, he has struggled to stay healthy. That said, he did manage five sacks in 15 games last season with Dallas.”
Lawson, once considered a premier pass rusher and recipient of a lucrative $45 million deal with the New York Jets, has surprisingly drawn little attention in free agency. “He hasn’t had a single workout with any team in 2025, which raises doubts about whether he can contribute right away,” Risdon added.
While many thought Detroit might reunite with Za’Darius Smith after his short stint with the team last season, he instead signed with the Philadelphia Eagles earlier this month despite reported ongoing conversations with the Lions.
Detroit’s lack of pressure became a major storyline after Hutchinson’s leg injury in October last season. Their struggles culminated in a disappointing playoff exit, where they failed to record a sack against Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels in a 45-31 divisional-round loss.
Optimism for Davenport’s Return
Although Davenport is confirmed out for Week 3, head coach Dan Campbell stressed that the injury does not appear season-ending. He noted that further evaluations were being conducted and that clarity should come by the weekend.
“Yeah, I don’t see him playing. We’re still waiting on some of the results,” Campbell said. “It doesn’t look like something that will end his season, but he won’t be out there this week.”
Campbell also emphasized faith in the current roster, saying he believes the depth behind Davenport can hold up in the meantime.
“Yes, we do. I feel good about the depth,” Campbell reiterated.
Do you want me to also add Carl Lawson’s career stats (sacks, tackles, QB hits, etc.) to make the rewrite more engaging for your readers?
