The Detroit Lions closed out their 2024 season on a disappointing note, as the Washington Commanders exposed their defensive weaknesses in the divisional round. Losing Aidan Hutchinson to injury was a huge setback, revealing a serious lack of depth on the edge. As they prepare for 2025, the Lions must aggressively pursue another top-tier pass rusher to support Hutchinson.

Mason Cameron of Pro Football Focus has proposed a blockbuster trade that could shake up the NFL, sending former New York Giants first-round pick Kayvon Thibodeaux to Detroit. Cameron believes the Lions could take advantage of the Giants possibly looking to move Thibodeaux before facing decisions on his fifth-year option and a potential contract extension.

“One possible target is the player selected three spots after Hutchinson in 2022: Kayvon Thibodeaux. The New York Giants edge rusher hasn’t quite met expectations, surpassing a 70.0 PFF pass-rush grade just once, but the right situation could change that.

With the Giants nearing a critical decision on Thibodeaux’s future, they might choose to capitalize on his trade value now. Detroit has the right structure to unlock his full potential, as well as the financial flexibility to extend him if they choose.”

Despite injuries limiting Thibodeaux in 2024, he still managed 5.5 sacks over 12 games. The Lions’ defensive culture could help him reach new heights, offering leadership, a strong system, and the cap space to make a long-term deal feasible.

Though this scenario is purely hypothetical from PFF, the idea of pairing Thibodeaux with Hutchinson is hard to ignore. If New York decides to part ways, Brad Holmes should at least explore the opportunity. Adding another elite pass rusher could be the key to pushing Detroit beyond just another playoff run—potentially all the way to the Super Bowl.