As the 2025 NFL free agency approaches, Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett remains one of the most sought-after trade targets, following his request for a change of team in early February.

Aidan Hutchinson is aware that the Detroit Lions are unlikely to land him, but he can’t help but imagine the impact a potential pass-rushing duo between the two could have.

Speaking about the possibility of the Lions acquiring Garrett, Hutchinson described their potential partnership as “deadly” during an appearance on ‘The Squeeze’ podcast, hosted by actor Taylor Lautner and his wife, Taylor ‘Tay’ Lautner. Hutchinson explained that a player like Garrett would “elevate” Detroit’s defensive line, enhancing the effectiveness of both edge rushers.

“If Myles and I teamed up, it would be deadly,” Hutchinson said. “We talked about it at the [NFL Honors show]—what could be. While it’s probably unlikely, I’d be excited to play next to him if it ever happened. It would completely elevate our whole defensive line—such a terrifying defensive line. We get along well too.”

Hutchinson is recovering from a season-ending broken leg sustained in 2024. Before the injury, he had been leading the league with 7.5 sacks through Week 5. In just three years, Hutchinson became a top-tier pass rusher and was on track for his first All-Pro selection before the setback.

Garrett, one of the top defensive ends of the past decade, posted his second straight 14-sack season in 2024. His consistent performance earned him his seventh consecutive double-digit sack season and a fourth first-team All-Pro selection.

Once Hutchinson returns from his injury, he will help lead a revamped Lions defense in 2025. The team lost former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who became head coach of the New York Jets. Kelvin Sheppard, the former linebackers coach, will take over as the defensive coordinator in 2025.

While Sheppard aims to maintain Glenn’s aggressive style, many of the Lions’ defensive players are set to hit free agency in March. Notably, top cornerback Carlton Davis III’s $14.5 million contract will expire, and the team will need to renegotiate his terms. Players like Marcus Davenport, Ifeatu Melifonwu, Kindle Vildor, Emmanuel Moseley, and Levi Onwuzurike will also become unrestricted free agents.

Given their current cap situation, the Lions were once considered a potential contender in the Garrett trade sweepstakes. However, the Browns have a history of being reluctant to trade their star players, especially to teams in contention. Despite changes within Detroit’s organization, the Lions have continued to dominate the NFC over the last two seasons.

Jaren Kawada is an NFL, College Football, and Betting Associate Editor at ClutchPoints. Originally from Honolulu, Hawaii, Kawada now resides in Indianapolis, Indiana, after earning his B.A. in sports media from Butler University.