The Detroit Lions still have key roster gaps to address, particularly at edge rusher. Beyond Aidan Hutchinson, the team lacks a reliable starter at the position. Additionally, they must find a replacement for Za’Darius Smith, who was released on March 9.
While general manager Brad Holmes could wait until the draft to bolster the pass rush, Jeremy Reisman of Pride of Detroit suggests that Charles Omenihu could be a free-agent target for Detroit.
“Omenihu fits the profile of what the Lions need to pair with Hutchinson,” Reisman explained. “However, there are some concerns. He served a six-game suspension in 2023 due to an alleged domestic violence incident, and injuries have also been an issue. He tore his ACL during the 2023 playoffs, which sidelined him for much of the 2024 season. His previous contract was a two-year, $16 million deal, so he could be an affordable option if Detroit is willing to take a chance on him.”
Omenihu appeared in only six regular-season games for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2024, as he spent most of the year recovering from his ACL injury. In 154 pass-rush snaps, he recorded one sack and 12 quarterback pressures.
Despite limited playing time in 2024, the 27-year-old has proven his ability in the past. In 2023, he delivered a career-best seven sacks and generated 37 quarterback pressures.
Adding Omenihu to Detroit’s roster would provide a valuable rotational pass rusher with championship experience. While Spotrac projects him to land a four-year, $47 million contract, his injury history might allow the Lions to sign him at a more manageable cost.
There’s no denying the risks—Omenihu has missed nearly 20 games over the past two seasons. However, if healthy, the Super Bowl LVIII champion could be poised for a resurgence in 2025. A fresh start in Detroit and playing alongside Hutchinson might elevate his game to another level
