“Trading pass-rusher Chase Young, who is on a one-year, $13 million contract, wouldn’t provide salary cap relief for 2025,” Knox noted. “However, it would grant the Saints valuable draft picks. Young has accumulated 1.5 sacks and 13 quarterback pressures over seven games this season.”

Knox pointed out that the Lions are a logical destination for available edge rushers and should consider acquiring Young. The team needs to fill the void left by Hutchinson’s injury after he fractured his leg in a win against the Dallas Cowboys.

More Possibilities for Detroit

While analysts predict the Lions will look for edge-rushing help before the trade deadline due to Hutchinson’s absence and his team-high 7.5 sacks, opinions on potential targets vary.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter mentioned that the Lions might target defensive end Za’Darius Smith from the Cleveland Browns. With the Browns trading receiver Amari Cooper to the Buffalo Bills and losing quarterback Deshaun Watson for the season, further trades appear likely as the deadline approaches.

Smith showed interest in the rumors, saying he would welcome a trade to Detroit. “I hate that injury happened to [Hutchinson], a player who was likely headed for Defensive Player of the Year. That’s a big loss for them,” he stated. “If I were to move to Detroit, I’d enjoy it, as I’d face Green Bay and the Vikings twice a year, which would be exciting.”

The Lions might still have a chance to get Hutchinson back, but only with an extraordinary playoff run. Schefter indicated he could return for the Super Bowl if the Lions reach the game for the first time in franchise history.