The Detroit Lions have made a concerted attempt to locate a good pass rusher to line up opposite Aidan Hutchinson, but with mixed results.
Another significant chance may have presented itself this week.
The Lions have been touted as a top destination for veteran edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney, who was released by the Carolina Panthers last week. The 32-year-old is believed to be interested in free agency, but the Lions might emerge as a strong competitor.
Jadeveon Clowney Could Help the Super Bowl Push in Detroit.
Ayrton Ostly of USA Today said that the Lions were plagued by injuries last season, including Hutchinson, who suffered a season-ending leg fracture in October.
Marcus Davenport’s season was similarly cut short by injury, leaving the team extremely shorthanded at the end of the season.
Ostly argued that Clowney might be an excellent fit for Detroit, which is trying to make a Super Bowl push in 2025.
“Detroit is making another push for a championship in 2025 and spent their top draft pick on the interior defensive line by selecting Tyleik Williams in Round 1,” Ostly pointed out. “They know the trenches lead the way on both sides of the ball so getting another veteran presence in the rotation could be a good safeguard against injury.”
Ostly noted that Clowney “fits the mold” of the type of edge rusher the Lions prefer, and that his 6-foot-5, 266-pound physique would be a valuable asset in run support.
Rookie Defensive Lineman Has Huge Opportunity
Williams might possibly play an important part for the Lions in the future season. The rookie is coming off a solid season at Ohio State, where defensive line coach Larry Johnson saw plenty of potential in him.
“Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying he’s Aaron Donald, but you know, his movement skills, how he can be able to change directions — Aaron Donald is really good at going, you know, what we call, ‘Jab-Ole’ inside-outside,” Johnson stated on the team’s official web page. “And then he can unleash his power. I believe Tyleik has the same type of movement because he can go power and finesse up the field if given the opportunity.”
According to Johnson, Williams has a high football IQ and will be a quick learner under Lions coach Dan Campbell.
“You can tell he’s a student of the game,” Johnson explained. “He is quite coachable. You give it to him once, and he’s got it. I believe that is what distinguishes him. He actually is.
“He has the opportunity to improve his skill set since he knows how to play hard. I believe it is critical for young players to understand that if they can play hard while still learning technique, they will be able to increase their skill set quickly. That is what Tyleik did. That’s why he’s in his current position.
Hutchinson’s comeback also gives the Lions a significant boost, as he was already on pace to return to the field if the team went to the Super Bowl last season.
Leave a Reply