The Lions are forecasted to link a $67 million contract with a former All-Pro defensive end who previously played for a rival team.
The Detroit Lions are anticipated to address their team’s vulnerable pass defense during the upcoming offseason. According to Bleacher Report’s David Kenyon, the Lions are expected to accomplish this without venturing beyond the NFC North. Kenyon predicts that the Lions will sign former Minnesota Vikings defensive end Danielle Hunter to a three-year contract worth $67 million, with $51 million guaranteed.
Kenyon highlights Hunter’s impressive career achievements, including multiple seasons with ten or more sacks and a career-best 16.5 sacks in 2023. Hunter, who earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2018 and has been a Pro Bowler in four of the past five seasons, could significantly bolster the Lions’ pass-rushing capabilities.
Despite turning 32 during the proposed contract, Hunter’s addition is seen as a logical move for Detroit, especially considering the team’s strong performance in various pass-rushing metrics last season. However, despite ranking first in metrics such as pressure rate and hurry percentage, the Lions were tied for 23rd in sacks.
Kenyon suggests that Hunter’s presence opposite Aidan Hutchinson could elevate Hutchinson’s performance and lead to a potent pass-rushing duo, potentially yielding 30-35 sacks between them alone. While injuries sidelined other potential contributors like James Houston during the 2023 season, adding an elite edge rusher like Hunter could transform the Lions’ defensive line into one of the league’s best.
Despite the potential benefits of signing Hunter, questions remain about his fit within the team’s culture and his age, as he will turn 30 in October. General Manager Brad Holmes emphasized a long-term approach during a recent press conference, indicating a preference for sustainable roster building rather than short-term fixes.
Considering this philosophy, the Lions may opt to address their pass-rushing needs through the NFL Draft, targeting young edge rushers to complement their long-term vision. Several mock drafts have linked the Lions to various edge rusher prospects, highlighting the team’s desire to bolster its pass defense, which struggled in the previous season, ranking 27th in passing yards allowed and 29th in net passing yards yielded per attempt.
