Lions Identified as a Prime Destination for $141 Million Pro Bowler
By John Vaccaro, Athlon Sports
It appears almost inevitable that the Detroit Lions will make a significant investment in an edge rusher during the 2025 NFL offseason.
Strengthening that position is crucial for them after struggling to sack opposing quarterbacks throughout the 2024 season.
Aidan Hutchinson led the team in sacks last year despite playing only five games, and no other player came close to matching his production.
Fortunately, the Lions will have plenty of intriguing options available this offseason.
Several high-profile players are rumored to be trade candidates, and this year’s free agent class is loaded with talent.
One of those free agents is a former Defensive Player of the Year, and the Lions are seen as a prime potential destination for him.
In a breakdown of the top free agent defensive linemen, Pro Football Focus’ Mason Cameron listed the Lions as a top landing spot for Los Angeles Chargers edge rusher Khalil Mack.
Mack delivered a dominant 2023 season for the Chargers, recording 17 sacks, 74 total tackles, and five forced fumbles in his second year in Los Angeles.
His 2024 numbers weren’t as eye-popping. He finished with six sacks but still managed 49 pressures and led all edge rushers with six batted passes, per PFF.
Although his statistical drop-off is concerning, he still tied for second on the team in sacks, and there may be an obvious reason for his decline.
He played 318 fewer snaps in 2024.
Additionally, the Chargers blitzed significantly less last season, dropping from a 31.5% blitz rate in 2023 to just 23.8% in 2024.
Meanwhile, the Lions had the second-highest blitz rate in the league at 34.6% in 2024.
With Detroit’s aggressive blitzing and opposing offenses keying in on Hutchinson, Mack would have more chances to disrupt backfields and boost his numbers.
He won’t come cheap, but Mack would be a worthwhile investment as the Lions aim to revamp their defense following their disappointing playoff exit.
He may not be as flashy as some of the top trade targets, but among free agents, few options are better than Mack, making him a player the Lions should seriously consider if they pursue the free-agent market.