Targeting Azeez Ojulari Could Solidify Detroit’s Long-Term Pass Rush
The Search for a Dynamic Complement to Hutchinson
The Detroit Lions have struggled over the past two seasons to find a consistent pass-rushing partner for their star edge rusher, Aidan Hutchinson. Despite acquiring veteran Za’Darius Smith at the trade deadline, the Lions continue to look for a younger, long-term solution to bolster their defensive front.
According to Bleacher Report’s Kris Knox, New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari could be the “perfect target” for Detroit. Knox believes that Ojulari’s age, potential, and recent resurgence make him an ideal addition to the Lions’ defense.
“Detroit should be searching for a long-term complement to Hutchinson on the edge,” Knox wrote. “If they’re going to find one in free agency—they’re projected to have $65 million in 2025 cap space available—Azeez Ojulari would be the perfect target.”
Ojulari’s Breakout and Future Potential
Ojulari has flashed elite pass-rushing skills since entering the league. During his rookie campaign in 2021, he recorded eight sacks. Injuries limited his availability over the next two seasons, but in 2024, the 24-year-old linebacker has rediscovered his form, amassing six sacks and showing he can be a disruptive force off the edge.
“At just 24 years old, Ojulari is just now stepping into his playing prime,” Knox wrote. “He’s shown that he can be a high-end No. 2 edge while filling in for Kayvon Thibodeaux this season.”
Ojulari’s combination of youth and proven production makes him an appealing option for a Lions defense eager to build on its recent success. Pairing him with Hutchinson, once the latter recovers from injury, could give Detroit a formidable pass-rushing duo capable of dominating for years to come.
Detroit’s Long-Term Vision
The Lions have made significant strides in improving their defense, particularly in the secondary. However, a consistent pass rush remains one of the last pieces of the puzzle. With Hutchinson recovering from a leg fracture, Smith has stepped up admirably, but at 33 years old, he represents a short-term solution.
Knox envisions a scenario where Ojulari takes on a long-term role:
“Ojulari and Hutchinson could be a dangerous combination for the next half-decade or more.”
Hutchinson’s Possible Return Sparks Hope
As Detroit eyes Ojulari’s potential to enhance their defensive unit, there’s also optimism surrounding Hutchinson’s recovery timeline. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Hutchinson’s leg fracture was a clean break, without any ligament or nerve damage.
This fortunate prognosis could allow Hutchinson to return as early as the Super Bowl in February 2025, should the Lions make a deep playoff run. Rapoport highlighted the straightforward nature of Hutchinson’s rehab:
“Sources say there are several factors that point to Hutchinson potentially being back at the early benchmark of four months.”
A Defensive Renaissance on the Horizon
With Ojulari’s name emerging as a top free-agent target and Hutchinson’s potential return, the Lions have the opportunity to turn their defense into a true powerhouse. The pairing of Ojulari and Hutchinson, combined with the veteran presence of Smith, could finally give Detroit the defensive consistency they’ve been chasing — a crucial step toward becoming perennial Super Bowl contenders.
