One major concern among Detroit Lions fans and national NFL analysts is the team’s plan at edge-rusher beyond Aidan Hutchinson. After releasing Za’Darius Smith this offseason, the Lions are once again searching for a second edge presence—and the fanbase is clearly frustrated.

Coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes are repeatedly asked about this topic at nearly every press conference. This time, however, Campbell offered a particularly interesting perspective when discussing the issue.

“In terms of the pass rush, I’m glad you brought that up. On offense, we had this big cross. We had two posts,” said Campbell. “Those plays take time to develop, and we could do it because it was a walkthrough with the O-line and D-line.”

“So it’s tough to evaluate. We can’t go full-speed to see how good the rush actually is or how to improve it. We’re just not allowed to yet. But I do feel confident,” Campbell added.

Campbell was referring to a play from OTAs in which Sam LaPorta caught a 34-yard pass on a dual-post route—something that requires elite blocking. The play succeeded largely because the linemen weren’t allowed to go full-speed, making real evaluation difficult.

And Campbell is correct. Even if the Lions had added an All-Pro edge rusher, evaluating trench play during walkthroughs just isn’t feasible. Still, that explanation won’t sit well with frustrated fans.

Many are stunned that Holmes didn’t address the edge position until the seventh round of the Draft and chose not to sign a proven pass rusher in free agency either.

Campbell expressing faith in his defensive line is a positive sign, but it’s also exactly what he’s expected to say publicly. Fortunately, it’s still not June, and the Lions have time to reassess and take action as needed.