Recommendation for Lions: Acquire Experienced Edge Rusher After Record-Breaking Season
The Detroit Lions have discovered a talented edge rusher in Aidan Hutchinson, yet they have faced challenges in finding a consistent pass rusher to complement his skills over the past two seasons.
According to Jared Ramsey of the Detroit Free Press, who analyzed the team’s offseason needs, the Lions struggled in defending against the pass and generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Ramsey suggested that the team could pursue edge rusher Leonard Floyd, who had an impressive season with the Buffalo Bills in 2023, recording double-digit sacks.
Ramsey highlighted that while the Lions could consider other free-agent defensive linemen such as Calais Campbell or Jadaveon Clowney, Floyd emerged as their top potential addition. Despite being 32 years old in September, Floyd’s notable performance with the Bills, securing 10½ sacks in the previous season, makes him an attractive option for the Detroit defense. His projected contract for 2024 is anticipated to be two years at $16.2 million, averaging $8.1 million per year, as reported by Spotrac.
Floyd has expressed his intention to prioritize the best financial offer available, stating that he will not provide the Bills with a hometown discount following their playoff exit.
Alternatively, the Lions could opt to bolster their pass rush through the draft, as they did with Hutchinson and second-year player James Houston. Christian Booher of SI.com’s All Lions suggested that the team might target UCLA’s Laiatu Latu, projected as a late first-round pick. Booher noted Latu’s exceptional quickness, ability to reach the quarterback, and strong tackling skills, despite concerns about his injury history stemming from a preseason neck injury in 2020.
Latu, determined to prove himself in the NFL after spending two years away from football due to his recovery, expressed his determination to showcase his abilities at the professional level.
