“Trading pass-rusher Chase Young, who is under a one-year, $13 million contract, wouldn’t provide cap relief for 2025,” Knox stated.
“However, it would give the Saints valuable draft picks. Young has recorded 1.5 sacks and 13 quarterback pressures across seven games this season.”
Knox noted that the Lions “make sense as a potential destination for any available edge rushers, and they should explore the opportunity to acquire Young.” The team needs to fill the gap left by Hutchinson’s injury after he fractured his leg in a victory over the Dallas Cowboys.
More Possibilities for Detroit
While various analysts speculate that the Lions will seek edge-rushing support before the trade deadline to compensate for Hutchinson and his team-high 7.5 sacks, opinions differ on potential targets.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter indicated that the Lions might pursue a trade with the Cleveland Browns for defensive end Za’Darius Smith. The Browns have already traded receiver Amari Cooper to the Buffalo Bills and lost quarterback Deshaun Watson for the season, increasing the likelihood of further trades as the deadline nears.
Smith expressed interest in the trade rumors, stating he would be open to joining Detroit.
“I hate that injury happened to [Hutchinson], a player who was likely on his way to winning Defensive Player of the Year. That’s a significant loss for them,” he remarked. “However, if I were to move to Detroit, I would enjoy it, as I’d face Green Bay and the Vikings twice a year. So, that would be exciting.”
The Lions may still have a shot at getting Hutchinson back, but only with an exceptional playoff run. Schefter mentioned that he could return for the Super Bowl if the Lions make it to the game for the first time in franchise history.
