The Detroit Lions ended their 2024 regular season with an impressive 31-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday Night Football. This win secured the NFC North title for the second consecutive year and marked the first time in franchise history that the Lions clinched the No. 1 seed in the NFC. With the top seed, Detroit earned a bye in the Wild Card round and will not play again until the Divisional Round of the playoffs.
The Lions now have some time to rest and prepare for their postseason journey. However, general manager Brad Holmes should also look to strengthen the team’s roster in preparation for a playoff run. While the Lions possess one of the most well-rounded rosters in the NFL, one position group that requires attention is the edge rusher position.
Detroit’s pass rush has been severely impacted by injuries to key players like Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport. Although the addition of Za’Darius Smith has been helpful, the team still lacks depth in the edge rusher room. Holmes should act quickly to add a player to bolster this unit, especially since the NFL’s playoff rosters freeze at 4 p.m. EST on January 8.
One player who could help fill this gap is veteran edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue. Although the free agent market is limited this late in the season, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox suggests Ngakoue could be a good fit for the Lions. Ngakoue is a seasoned veteran who could add depth to Detroit’s defense, particularly with Hutchinson’s uncertain return from a fractured tibia and fibula.
Ngakoue, now 29, is not the same dominant pass rusher he was early in his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, but he still possesses valuable experience. In 2023, Ngakoue played for the New England Patriots and the Baltimore Ravens, recording 1.5 sacks and 10 quarterback pressures. His ability to contribute as a role player could benefit the Lions’ defense as they pursue a championship.
The former third-round pick from Maryland has been somewhat of a journeyman in recent years, suiting up for seven different teams since 2019. However, his resume includes notable seasons, such as a nine-sack and 44-quarterback pressure campaign with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022. He also tallied four sacks with the Chicago Bears in 2023.
While Ngakoue may not be the elite pass rusher he once was, he could still be a savvy veteran addition to the Lions’ defensive line. His playoff experience and potential to provide depth make him a worthwhile option for the team as they prepare for their postseason run.
