As the Detroit Lions look to strengthen their defense, attention is turning to their pass rush—a unit that underperformed last season. Rather than relying solely on the draft, Detroit may look to the trade market for reinforcements.
One player drawing interest is Baltimore Ravens edge rusher Odafe Oweh. Mike Payton of AtoZSports believes Detroit is a strong candidate to acquire Oweh, a former first-round pick who could be available as the Ravens look to navigate upcoming contract decisions.
Oweh’s Rising Stock and Lions’ Opportunity
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Oweh is among several veterans Baltimore may shop around during the draft as they look to improve their positioning on the board. Although Oweh had a slow start to his professional career—tallying 13 sacks over his first three seasons—he broke out in 2024 with 10 sacks and 39 tackles in just 10 starts.
Payton sees a logical fit between Detroit and Oweh, particularly given the Ravens’ need to manage future cap space. He noted that Detroit could absorb Oweh’s fifth-year option and potentially secure him on a reasonable extension.
“If Baltimore chooses to move on and draft an edge in this year’s deep class, Detroit could seize the opportunity,” Payton wrote. “Adding Oweh wouldn’t break the bank, and the Lions would get a talented 26-year-old to complement their pass rush.”
Payton also pointed out the cost-effectiveness of such a move. Cap expert Josh Queipo estimated that an extension for Oweh might be worth around $46.5 million over three years—a stark contrast to the anticipated $150 million contract of Aidan Hutchinson.
Lions’ Pass Rush Needs and Potential Draft Moves
Detroit’s defense was hampered last year after Hutchinson went down with a serious leg injury. Za’Darius Smith, acquired midseason, contributed 4.5 sacks, but overall production remained lacking. Despite efforts through free agency and past drafts, the Lions have yet to find a reliable complement to Hutchinson.
Looking ahead, Detroit may explore a trade during the draft to secure a rising talent. Colton Pouncy of The Athletic speculated the Lions might leap 10 spots to No. 18—via a potential deal with Seattle—to draft Georgia standout Mykel Williams.
Pouncy highlighted that general manager Brad Holmes isn’t shy about moving up in the draft. He’s done so before to land prospects like Jameson Williams, Terrion Arnold, and Brian Branch. Williams may be next on that list.
“At 6-foot-5 and 261 pounds, Williams fits the mold Detroit likes,” Pouncy wrote. “He’s long, strong, disciplined against the run, and known for his character and relentless motor—traits the Lions highly value in edge defenders.”
