The Detroit Lions are gearing up to address their need for additional EDGE defenders this offseason.
While Aidan Hutchinson emerged as the team’s top pass-rusher in 2024 despite playing only five games, the Lions are looking to bolster their defensive lineup to complement his efforts.
Hutchinson, who led the team with 7.5 sacks, suffered a season-ending injury in Week 6 but remains under contract through 2025. Meanwhile, Za’Darius Smith, acquired mid-season, contributed four sacks in eight games, solidifying his role as the team’s second-most productive pass-rusher.
Here’s a breakdown of the Lions’ current EDGE defenders and their contract statuses heading into the 2025 season:
– Aidan Hutchinson: Signed through 2025 with an $11.4 million cap hit.
– Marcus Davenport: Set to become an unrestricted free agent after playing just two games due to injury.
– Josh Paschal: Recorded two sacks and 31 pressures in 14 games; under contract with a $2.5 million cap hit.
– Za’Darius Smith: Signed through 2025 but faces potential contract escalators that could impact his future with the team.
– John Cominsky: Unrestricted free agent after missing the entire 2024 season with a torn MCL.
– Al-Quadin Muhammad: Emerged as a key reserve with three sacks; set to hit free agency.
– Mitchell Agude: Exclusive rights free agent after limited snaps in 2024.
– Jonah Williams: Unrestricted free agent after playing for three teams, including two games with Detroit.
– Isaac Ukwu: Signed to a futures deal, with a $840,000 cap hit expected in 2025.
– Nate Lynn: Under contract through 2026 but spent 2024 on injured reserve.
The Lions face critical decisions in free agency and the draft to strengthen their EDGE rotation. With Hutchinson as the cornerstone, the team aims to build a more consistent pass rush to compete in the upcoming season.
