The Detroit Lions are anticipated to address the cornerback position during the upcoming offseason, but an effective strategy to bolster the cornerback unit involves enhancing the team’s pass rush. The NFL scouting department at Bleacher Report has suggested a trade scenario aimed at immediately improving Detroit’s pass rush by acquiring outside linebacker Haason Reddick from the Philadelphia Eagles. Notably, Detroit demonstrated a balanced pass rush in the regular season, with 18 different defenders contributing a sack. However, defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and defensive tackle Alim McNeill were the primary contributors in terms of sacks.
The proposed trade for Haason Reddick, a player with an impressive average of more than 12.5 sacks per season over the last four years, could provide Detroit with a formidable edge rusher to complement Hutchinson. Reddick’s track record includes significant statistics such as 51 tackles for loss, 13 forced fumbles, and 8 pass defenses since 2020. At 29 years old, Reddick has also earned Pro Bowl honors in the past two seasons with the Eagles.
While the Lions have promising talent in 25-year-old James Houston, who made a significant impact in his rookie season, the Bleacher Report team suggests that adding a premier player like Reddick to the defense could be a tremendous move. Houston, despite suffering an ankle injury in Week 2 of the 2023 season, returned for the NFC championship game, showcasing the organization’s faith in his abilities. However, the allure of securing a talented pass rusher like Reddick may be hard to resist for the Lions, especially with the 2024 season poised as a Super Bowl or bust campaign.
Haason Reddick, with one year left on his contract, presents a potential financial challenge with a $21.4 million cap hit in 2024. The exact financial details of the trade would need to be worked out between the Lions and the Eagles. Fortunately, Detroit enters the offseason with ample cap space, ranking seventh with $61.1 million, according to Spotrac.
Considering Detroit’s offensive strength over the past two seasons, the major offseason upgrades are expected to focus on the defensive side, making edge rusher a significant priority. The Lions, who were tied for 24th with 41 sacks during the 2023 regular season, recognize the need to fortify their pass rush for the upcoming campaign.