The Detroit Lions boast a star in edge defender Aidan Hutchinson but have struggled to secure a reliable partner to generate pressure from the opposite side.

They could fix that issue before the trade deadline, as several analysts believe the team might target Miami Dolphins pass rusher Jaelan Phillips. With Miami’s playoff hopes fading fast, many expect them to become sellers at the deadline — a situation Detroit could exploit to strengthen its defensive front.

Lions Could Land ‘Highly Productive’ Defensive End

Vinnie Iyer of The Sporting News listed trade candidates for all 32 NFL franchises, suggesting that while the Lions might covet Cincinnati Bengals standout Trey Hendrickson, Phillips appears to be the more realistic acquisition.

“With Hendrickson likely out of reach and the Lions hesitant to meet Cincinnati’s steep asking price, they could turn their focus to another highly effective complement to Defensive Player of the Year candidate Aidan Hutchinson,” Iyer explained.

Phillips has battled injuries the past two seasons, playing in only 12 total games across 2023 and 2024. However, when healthy, he’s proven to be a productive pass rusher, averaging over seven sacks per season through his first three NFL campaigns.

Reporter Mike Payton of AtoZ Sports suggested Detroit might acquire Phillips for a Day 3 draft selection.

“The Lions would need to give up a higher Day 3 pick to make it happen, but they’d receive a defender who’s produced 22 pressures this year and is ready to capitalize on the one-on-one matchups Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill create,” Payton wrote. “This is the deal Detroit should prioritize since it offers upside, doesn’t require a first-rounder, and won’t hurt their cap space.”

Payton also described Phillips as the “best edge rusher” currently available, meaning Detroit could face stiff competition to acquire him.

Lions Could Explore Additional Options

Iyer mentioned that the Lions could also pursue another Miami defender, edge rusher Bradley Chubb.

Other possibilities may no longer be viable. New York Jets pass rusher Jermaine Johnson, once considered a prime trade candidate, recently declared his commitment to remaining with the team.

“I’m definitely wanted here, and I want to stay here,” Johnson told ESPN. “That’s been made clear — hence the tweet.”

Detroit has used the trade deadline to reinforce its edge rotation before. Last year, the team made an urgent move to acquire Za’Darius Smith after Hutchinson suffered a season-ending injury in October.

With a Super Bowl-contending roster in place, the Lions could adopt another bold approach this season — especially after their pass rush shortcomings contributed to last year’s early playoff exit.