Lions Seek Edge Rushers in 2026 NFL Draft After Free Agency Misses

Detroit must find consistent pass rush help to complement star DE Aidan Hutchinson.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 2:35am

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The Detroit Lions had an active offseason, making several roster moves, but they still have a glaring need at defensive end that they must address in the 2026 NFL Draft. With the departure of several edge rushers in free agency, the Lions are thin at the position beyond star Aidan Hutchinson. Detroit recorded 49 sacks as a team in 2025, but they need to find more consistent pass rush help to take pressure off Hutchinson and improve their defense.

Why it matters

The Lions are aiming to contend for a Super Bowl, and building a strong pass rush is crucial to their success. Hutchinson is an elite talent, but he can't carry the entire defensive line on his own. Detroit must find one or two more edge rushers in the draft who can make an immediate impact and provide a consistent pass-rushing threat alongside Hutchinson.

The details

The Lions lost several key edge rushers in free agency, including Al-Quadin Muhammad, Josh Paschal, and Tyrus Wheat. They currently have only three non-Hutchinson edge rushers on the roster - Tyler Lacy, Ahmad Hassanein, and the recently signed DJ Wonnum. With nine picks in the 2026 draft, the Lions have the opportunity to address this need, but they must prioritize adding at least one or two impact edge rushers to complement Hutchinson and improve their pass rush.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place in April.

The players

Aidan Hutchinson

The Lions' defensive cornerstone at defensive end, Hutchinson is one of the best pass rushers in the NFL.

Brad Holmes

The Detroit Lions' general manager, who has been active in making roster moves this offseason.

Dan Campbell

The head coach of the Detroit Lions, working alongside GM Brad Holmes to build a contending team.

Al-Quadin Muhammad

A former Lions edge rusher who signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in free agency.

Josh Paschal

A former Lions edge rusher who was cut by the team this offseason.

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What’s next

The Lions will look to address their need for edge rushers in the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place in April.

The takeaway

The Detroit Lions have a glaring need at defensive end that they must address in the 2026 NFL Draft after failing to find consistent pass rush help in free agency. Building a strong pass rush around star Aidan Hutchinson is crucial to the Lions' Super Bowl aspirations.