Proposed Trade Brings Eight-Time Pro Bowler Khalil Mack to Detroit in Bid to Fill Hutchinson Void

With Aidan Hutchinson sidelined, Detroit eyes seasoned star Khalil Mack to bolster defense.

The Detroit Lions find themselves grappling with a significant challenge this season following the loss of their defensive cornerstone, Aidan Hutchinson, to a season-ending leg injury. The team is now urgently exploring options to replace Hutchinson’s production, and one name has surfaced as a potential solution: Khalil Mack. As a seasoned eight-time Pro Bowler, Mack could offer the Lions an experienced replacement capable of rejuvenating their pass rush as they approach the critical Nov. 5 trade deadline.

Detroit’s Defensive Dilemma

Losing Hutchinson, widely regarded as one of the NFL’s top pass rushers, has left the Lions in a tough spot. Hutchinson’s impact on the field was significant, registering a league-leading number of quarterback pressures within just five games. Now, the team is considering trade options to fill the void, and Los Angeles Chargers’ veteran edge rusher Khalil Mack appears to be a compelling candidate.

Athlon Sports’ Chris Licata has outlined a trade proposal that could bring Mack to Detroit. This potential move would involve sending a 2025 fourth-round and seventh-round pick to the Chargers in exchange for Mack’s services. Though it comes with a price tag, Mack’s extensive track record makes him an intriguing option for Detroit, especially given the urgency created by Hutchinson’s absence.

Khalil Mack’s Career Credentials

Mack is no stranger to top-tier performance in the NFL. His accolades include an NFL Defensive Player of the Year title from 2016, showcasing his ability to dominate on the field. The star defender has not only maintained his consistency over the years but also remains a disruptive force even at age 33, currently leading the Chargers with 22 quarterback pressures.

On a one-year, $19 million contract that expires in 2025, Mack has recorded 2.5 sacks this season. While his sack numbers have dipped compared to last year’s career-high of 17, his overall influence remains strong. “Through seven weeks, no other Lions defender has more than 19 quarterback pressures,” notes Licata, highlighting how Mack could bring much-needed experience and skill to Detroit’s struggling defense.

Balancing the Risk and Reward

While adding Mack would bolster the Lions’ defensive capabilities, questions remain around whether the team should invest draft picks in a veteran player on a one-year contract. Despite this, Licata emphasizes Mack’s potential impact for Detroit: “Yes, it may be unlikely, and there may be more cost-friendly options out there…but the Lions need a real impact replacement for Aidan Hutchinson.”

If Detroit goes ahead with this trade, Mack could provide not only a temporary solution to Hutchinson’s absence but also a valuable asset as the team pushes for playoff contention.