4-Pro-Bowl and 4 Other Game-Changing EDGE Rushers the Lions Could Add Before Camp Kick-off
As the Detroit Lions prepare for the upcoming NFL season, there’s still a chance they look to bolster their pass-rush depth, particularly at the EDGE position opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
Though they selected Ahmed Hassanein in the sixth round of the draft, Detroit may enter training camp with Marcus Davenport starting opposite Hutchinson unless another notable addition is made. With camp still weeks away, the door remains open for general manager Brad Holmes to bring in additional competition.
Several experienced edge defenders remain on the market. Here are five names the Lions might consider as the roster takes shape:
Za’Darius Smith
Smith joined the Lions at the trade deadline last season to help fill the void left by Hutchinson’s absence. He contributed 40 pressures and four sacks during his short stint. Although Detroit parted ways with him before free agency due to cap considerations, Holmes didn’t rule out the possibility of bringing him back. Between his time with Cleveland and Detroit, Smith tallied nine sacks in 2024, proving he can still generate pressure. A return could provide valuable depth and raise the level of competition at the position.
Matt Judon
A Michigan native and Grand Valley State product, Judon could benefit from a return to his home state after a disappointing 2024 campaign in Atlanta. The four-time Pro Bowler has compiled 72 sacks over his nine-year career, including a standout 15.5-sack season in 2022. Injuries and a drop in production have clouded his outlook, but if he can recapture past form, he could be a smart late-offseason pickup. Entering his age-33 season, his ceiling may be limited, but the upside remains intriguing.
Von Miller
Once one of the league’s most feared pass-rushers, Miller is currently searching for a new team after the Bills released him following the 2024 season. With eight Pro Bowls and two Super Bowl rings to his name, his leadership and experience could be an asset for a Detroit team with championship ambitions. While he’s not the same explosive force he once was, Miller still managed six sacks last year and could offer situational value as a rotational pass-rusher.
Preston Smith
Smith, another veteran on the market, spent last season with both the Packers and Steelers, producing 4.5 sacks. Despite a slight dip in output, he had notched eight sacks the year prior, showing he’s still capable of making an impact. Known for his durability, Smith has suited up for at least 16 games every year of his career. While not a game-changer, he brings dependability and could serve as a steady hand in Detroit’s EDGE group.
Dawuane Smoot
Smoot helped the Bills reach the AFC title game in 2024, contributing mostly as a run defender. His sack numbers dipped to just 1.5 last season, but his ability to hold the edge and defend the run would complement Detroit’s more explosive rushers. Smoot’s most productive campaign came in 2021 with Jacksonville, where he posted six sacks. He may not deliver highlight-reel plays, but his reliability against the run would make him a valuable role player.