Jack Sawyer works out at the NFL combine.

The Detroit Lions have a need for more depth in their pass rush, and one analyst believes they could address it through a trade during the draft.

Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report proposed top draft targets for all 32 teams, predicting the Lions would trade down to acquire more picks and select a player he described as a “poor man’s version of Aidan Hutchinson.” The Lions struggled with their pass rush after Hutchinson suffered a season-ending leg injury in October, and Ballentine feels they could find more help early in the second round of the upcoming draft.

Lions Get More Picks, Take National Champion Edge Rusher

In a mock draft, Ballentine predicted the Lions would trade out of the first round, sending their No. 28 pick along with the No. 246 pick to the New England Patriots in exchange for the No. 38 and No. 69 picks.

Ballentine mentioned that the early second-round pick would put the Lions in a good spot to select Ohio State edge rusher Jack Sawyer.

“By trading down, I kept the Lions in position to still get help off the edge,” Ballentine wrote. “That’s exactly what Jack Sawyer would provide. He’s a poor man’s version of Aidan Hutchinson, but Sawyer fits the type of player the Lions look for every draft. He’s tough, plays physical, and has a high motor.”

Ballentine acknowledged Sawyer has some flaws, lacking “ideal quickness and bend for the position,” but pointed out that he is “relentless” in dealing with blocks.

“Pairing Sawyer with Hutch, [Josh] Paschal, and possibly Za’Darius Smith gives the Lions several options to create a pass rush,” Ballentine noted.

Lions Add More Defensive Help

Ballentine also suggested the Lions could use their newly acquired No. 69 pick to address the defensive line by selecting Texas A&M lineman Shemar Turner.

“After the Combine and Pro Days, Turner will likely secure a spot in the top-75 picks. He has the desired size (6’4″ and 300 pounds) and versatility to contribute immediately,” Ballentine wrote. “He moves well laterally and has a powerful first step. If the Lions are looking for a Levi Onwuzurike replacement, Turner could be that guy.”

The Lions have already seen changes to their defensive line this offseason, with the hiring of Kacy Rodgers as their new defensive line coach. Rodgers had success with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, helping the team rank among the league’s top third in sacks during his tenure.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell praised Rodgers at the NFL combine, calling his addition a great move for the staff.

“I’ve seen him coach. I know what he’s like. I know what the D-line is like with him coaching them. I’ve always thought really highly of him,” Campbell said. “When I knew there was a chance to get him and he was going to be available, it just made sense. I think he’s going to be great for our D-line.”