Lions Add ‘Highly Productive’ Edge Rusher After 16.5-Sack Season in Predicted Trade Deal

Following their disappointing playoff exit, the Detroit Lions are looking to address key weaknesses, with their pass-rushing depth being a major concern.

The team struggled after Aidan Hutchinson sustained a season-ending leg fracture in October, as no other player managed to match his 7.5 sacks. Despite attempts to find a reliable edge rusher via free agency and the draft, the Lions have yet to secure a consistent threat opposite Hutchinson.

However, that could change soon, as one analyst predicts Detroit will use their first-round draft pick on a top pass-rushing prospect.

Lions Projected to Strengthen Defense

According to Colton Pouncy of The Athletic, the Lions are likely to select Boston College edge rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku with the No. 28 overall pick. Ezeiruaku put together an impressive final college season, recording 16.5 sacks.

“[Ezeiruaku] was highly productive in his final year at Boston College,” Pouncy explained. “He has long arms, can hold his own in the run game, and most importantly, has the ability to win one-on-one battles quickly. After struggling with depth last season, the Lions should look to add more pass rushers. Ezeiruaku is a young talent who could make a difference.”

Detroit’s lack of depth was exposed last season. Josh Paschal only played in a rotational role, Marcus Davenport appeared in just two games, and Za’Darius Smith—who is set to become a free agent—appears to be nearing the end of his career.

Pouncy believes Ezeiruaku could step in immediately and make an impact for the team in 2025.

Scouts See High Potential in Ezeiruaku

NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein projects that Ezeiruaku has the tools to develop into a high-level NFL starter over the next few years.

“He gets off the snap quickly, using agility and bend to create pressure or make stops in the backfield,” Zierlein noted. “His hands help him take small advantages and turn them into big ones. He has multiple ways to attack protection schemes, though he’s still refining his technique. His skill, athletic ability, and mindset suggest he could become a well-rounded, three-down starter.”

Lions Could Make Another Key Defensive Move

While the Lions are focused on improving their pass rush, they also have questions in the secondary. Starting cornerback Carlton Davis III is set to hit free agency, and he recently spoke highly of head coach Dan Campbell, possibly hinting at his future plans.

“He’s a real one,” Davis said during an appearance on the Slightly Decent podcast. “Best head coach I’ve played for, no doubt. That’s why I was out there ready to break my jaw for him.”

Detroit is eager to bounce back from their divisional round exit, where their defense allowed 45 points in a lopsided loss to the Washington Commanders.

With an aggressive approach to roster building, the Lions could make multiple key additions to solidify their defense for the upcoming season.