The Lions have attempted to locate a decent replacement for Hutchinson but have been unable to identify a player capable of making a consistent impact. One analyst feels the Lions may have another opportunity this offseason, with a veteran pass rusher still looking for a new home.
Lions Urged to Add Former Patriots Star
Jeff Risdon of USA Today’s Lions Wire discussed several prospective free agent additions for the Lions as they prepare for training camp, including former New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons edge rusher Matthew Judon.
Risdon said that Judon, who signed a $54.5 million contract with the Patriots, still has much left in the tank despite a subpar season in 2024.
“Judon bagged 15.5 sacks playing OLB for New England in 2022 and was leading the NFL in sacks in 2023 before suffering a torn biceps in Week 4,” according to Risdon. “The Detroit native didn’t click in Atlanta in 2024 (no one did!), but if he’s got a late-career rebound in him, Judon’s length and craftiness at EDGE are exactly what the Lions covet at the position.”
Judon, a four-time Pro Bowler, recorded 5.5 sacks and 41 total tackles last season, along with an interception that he recovered for a touchdown.
The Lions have made more investments in their edge-rushing group, including James Houston, who appeared to be a breakout star in his first season with Hutchinson. Houston recorded 8.0 sacks in seven games as a rookie, but struggled outside of passing situations and was eventually fired last season.
Lions could bring back a former player.
If the Lions want to get some pass-rushing support for Hutchinson, they may look at other options, such as the player who filled the vacuum following his injury last season. The Lions acquired Za’Darius Smith prior to the trade deadline, and he led the team down the stretch with 4.0 total sacks.
According to Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report, the Lions could re-sign Smith after he was released earlier this offseason. Knox suggested that Smith may provide some insurance if Hutchinson takes his time returning to form after a shattered leg.
“While it would be ideal to have a healthy Hutchinson in training camp and under long-term contract, Detroit should look for more at the position.” Last season, the defense earned only 37 sacks as a unit. Knox said that Za’Darius Smith was second behind Hutchinson with only four.
“The Lions released Smith this summer. Bringing him back or getting another pass rusher through free agency or trade—Trey Hendrickson is a prominent trade target—would be prudent.
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