Should the Lions be interested?
I say yes… but always for the right price.
This likely signals Mack will be back in LA, who was most Lions fans top FA
target.
The Los Angeles Chargers have released five-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Joey Bosa in a cap-saving move, freeing up $25.36 million. This decision sends ripple effects across the NFL, especially for teams looking to bolster their pass rush. One of those teams could be the Detroit Lions, who are in the market for an elite edge rusher.
The Lions made significant defensive improvements in 2023 but still struggled with consistency in getting after the quarterback. Aidan Hutchinson is a rising star, but he needs a reliable counterpart to maximize his impact. Bosa, when healthy, has proven he can be a dominant force, with 67 career sacks in 98 games. Pairing him with Hutchinson would create a formidable pass-rushing duo that could elevate Detroit’s defense to another level.
However, Bosa’s recent injury history raises concerns. He has missed significant time over the past three seasons, limiting his ability to stay on the field. If the Lions are to make a move for him, it must be at the right price and with contract protections in place. A short-term, incentive-laden deal could be the best approach, ensuring that Detroit isn’t overcommitting to a player with durability concerns.
Another factor in the decision is the free-agent market. The Lions have been linked to other edge rushers, most notably Khalil Mack, who could now be more likely to stay with the Chargers following Bosa’s release. Other options include DeMarcus Lawrence, Chase Young, and even draft prospects.
Ultimately, Bosa is a high-risk, high-reward player. If Detroit can structure a team-friendly deal and feel confident in his health, he could be a game-changer for their defense. But if his price tag is too steep or his injuries remain a concern, the Lions would be wise to explore alternative options.
