For two seasons, the Detroit Lions have struggled to find a consistent pass-rushing partner for Aidan Hutchinson, with none of their attempts proving successful for the long term.

However, a recent report suggests they might target a young, breakout edge rusher this offseason to address this need.

According to Bleacher Report’s Kris Knox, New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari could be the ideal target for the Lions as they look to build a stronger defensive front.

Although Detroit made a significant move to acquire Za’Darius Smith at the trade deadline, keeping him through next season, Knox believes the Lions should still seek a long-term solution.

Smith, who will be 33 when next season starts, may not be the long-term answer, and with around $65 million in projected cap space for 2025, the Lions are in a good position to explore other options.

Ojulari, he argues, could be that perfect complement to Hutchinson for years to come.

Ojulari had a standout rookie season in 2021, recording eight sacks, but injuries and a reduced role over the following seasons kept him out of the spotlight.

This year, however, the 24-year-old is back in form, with six sacks so far and a pace that could see him set a new career-high.

Knox highlighted that, despite his previous setbacks, Ojulari is now entering his prime and showing his potential as a strong No. 2 edge rusher.

His performance while filling in for Kayvon Thibodeaux in New York this season further proves his capability.

While Smith provides the Lions with a reliable pass rusher in the short term, particularly as Hutchinson recovers from his injury, Knox suggested that Ojulari could be a long-term piece for Detroit’s defense.

He pointed out that Ojulari and Hutchinson together could form a formidable duo for years to come, offering the Lions a dominant edge rushing tandem.

In recent seasons, the Lions have worked to strengthen various parts of their defense, including improving their secondary, which had been one of the league’s weakest units.

However, the pass rush has remained inconsistent, with Hutchinson being the only player to truly break out as a reliable force.

The addition of Ojulari could provide the stability the Lions have been seeking alongside Hutchinson.

Hutchinson’s injury in October, which occurred during a win over the Dallas Cowboys, complicated matters for the Lions.

The injury, a clean break, was gruesome but didn’t involve any ligament or nerve damage, which was a positive sign for his recovery.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Hutchinson’s rehab is straightforward, and there’s a small chance he could return for the final game of the season—provided the Lions make a deep playoff run.

The four-month recovery timeline would align with the Super Bowl in February 2025, offering Hutchinson a chance to make an unprecedented comeback if Detroit reaches the big game.

Though Hutchinson’s injury was alarming, the fact that it was a clean break without further complications has allowed for a more optimistic outlook on his return.

If the Lions can continue to strengthen their defense, adding a player like Ojulari, the future of their pass rush could be even brighter alongside a recovered Hutchinson.