The Detroit Lions are expected to spend significant draft capital on an edge rusher, reinforcing one of the team’s most pressing defensive needs.
They might also pursue one of the top available pass rushers via trade, according to a new report. Mike Payton of AtoZSports mentioned that the Lions could be strong contenders for Odafe Oweh, the Baltimore Ravens edge rusher who may be on the trade block.
As reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Ravens are open to trade offers for their former first-round selection during the NFL Draft. Oweh was listed among a few veterans seen as “expendable” as teams consider moving up in the draft order.
Oweh had a slow start—starting 13 games and logging 13 sacks across his first three seasons—but turned in a breakout 2024 campaign. The 26-year-old recorded 10 sacks and 39 total tackles in 10 starts last season.
Payton believes the Lions could be inclined to make a move for Oweh.
“Given all the major contracts the Ravens need to manage, they may move on from Oweh and draft a replacement in this deep edge class, while Detroit could take on his fifth-year option and look to extend him,” Payton wrote.
Payton also said Oweh would be affordable for Detroit, which matters with key contract extensions looming.
“That potential extension wouldn’t come at a massive cost,” Payton wrote. “Cap analyst Josh Queipo projected a three-year, $46.5 million deal if signed this offseason. Compare that to Hutchinson’s projected $150 million-plus deal—it’s a big gap.”
The Lions struggled to maintain a steady pass rush after Aidan Hutchinson’s season-ending leg fracture. Za’Darius Smith, acquired midseason, added 4.5 sacks, but few others made an impact. Detroit has tried multiple avenues to support Hutchinson, but success has been limited.
During the draft, Detroit may trade to add more edge help. Colton Pouncy of The Athletic proposed a jump up 10 spots to No. 18 in a trade with the Seahawks to draft Georgia’s Mykel Williams.
Pouncy noted that GM Brad Holmes has been aggressive in previous drafts, trading up for Jameson Williams, Terrion Arnold, and Brian Branch. He believes Williams could be the next target.
“Williams checks nearly every box the Lions want in their edge rushers,” Pouncy wrote. “He’s 6-foot-5, 261 pounds, with 34 3/8-inch arms, plays strong against the run, stays disciplined, has power and high effort, and is considered a high-character guy.”
