Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer emerges as a top target for Detroit’s defensive future

The Detroit Lions have made significant strides defensively, but the absence of star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson following his Week 6 injury has left a noticeable gap. The Lions are now looking ahead to solidify their defensive line for the future, and Pro Football Focus (PFF) suggests a promising addition in the 2025 NFL Draft. According to PFF’s recent mock draft simulator, Ohio State defensive end Jack Sawyer is poised to be a key target for Detroit, providing Hutchinson with a young and dynamic running mate on the edge.

Addressing the Defensive Void

Since Hutchinson went down with a fractured fibula and tibia in Week 6, the Lions’ defense has had to adapt. Although defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn has steered the unit with admirable adjustments, Hutchinson’s absence has been keenly felt, especially with the pressure on the edge. While Za’Darius Smith’s acquisition offers some relief, the veteran defensive end is in the final year of his contract, leaving Detroit in need of a long-term solution to complement Hutchinson’s stellar play.

Jack Sawyer: A Rising Star

In the 2025 mock draft simulation, PFF’s Bradley Locker highlighted Jack Sawyer as a prime candidate to join the Lions, with 24.5% of mock users selecting him for Detroit. At 6-foot-5 and 260 pounds, Sawyer has quickly established himself as one of the most disruptive defensive players in college football. With 29 quarterback pressures and four sacks this season, Sawyer’s impact on the field is undeniable. His consistency in pass rushing, along with an impressive 84.1 run defense grade, positions him as a complete edge rusher the Lions would be eager to develop.

Sawyer has also been lauded for his relentless motor, a quality that makes him an ideal fit for Detroit’s gritty, hard-nosed defensive philosophy. Lions head coach Dan Campbell would no doubt appreciate Sawyer