The Detroit Lions taking more than one edge rusher in the NFL Draft actually makes a lot of sense when you break it down. Here’s why:
### 1. **Aidan Hutchinson Needs Help**
Hutchinson is a star, but he’s been doing a lot of the heavy lifting on his own. The Lions’ pass rush dropped off significantly when opposing teams focused on neutralizing him. Adding one edge rusher gives him a partner—but adding two builds a real rotation and future-proofing.
### 2. **Depth and Rotation Are Key**
Top defenses rotate edge rushers to keep them fresh and effective. Right now, the Lions don’t have much proven depth behind Hutchinson. Romeo Okwara and Charles Harris are gone, and James Houston is still more of a situational guy.
### 3. **Injury Insurance**
Pass rushers take a pounding. If Hutchinson or another key guy goes down, the Lions need to be prepared. Drafting two edge rushers gives them insurance and avoids a drop-off in production.
### 4. **Versatility in Defensive Schemes**
Aaron Glenn likes to mix up looks and use multiple fronts. Having several capable edge defenders lets them be more creative—standing guys up, moving them inside, disguising blitzes, etc.
### 5. **Strong Draft Class**
This year’s edge rusher class is deep, especially in the mid rounds. The Lions could take a premier guy early and then grab another value pick on Day 2 or 3 without overreaching.
### 6. **Championship Window Mentality**
Detroit is in win-now mode. Doubling up on pass rushers makes them more dangerous immediately—and that can be the difference in January.
If they go that route, it wouldn’t be shocking. It’s a smart way to stack talent and raise the floor and ceiling of the defense.
Want to look at some specific prospects they might target?
