In a June 26 mailbag column, SI.com writer Albert Breer discussed the Detroit Lions’ roster, stating that general manager Brad Holmes has addressed the most pressing needs. However, he believes the team could benefit from adding an eight-year veteran to the defensive line.
Lions Could Use Some Pass Rush Help
While Hutchinson has become a breakout star during his two seasons in Detroit, Breer noted that the team has struggled to add quality depth among pass rushers.
“Right now, the Lions would probably start Marcus Davenport there, which isn’t a huge problem, but probably requires a little more depth,” Breer wrote.
Breer added that a veteran like Ngakoue or Emmanuel Ogbah “would make some sense,” noting that it would help increase the pressure on passing downs and give another starting option if Davenport can’t stay healthy.
“It would help the Lions protect against Davenport’s extensive injury history, and also add to what the team could do on passing downs,” Breer wrote. “And if things go according to plan this year, the defense will be seeing a lot of those situations.”
Ngakoue is coming off a season where he made 22 total tackles with 4.0 sacks in 13 games with the Chicago Bears. The former Pro Bowler had been a consistent performer before 2023, notching at least 8.0 sacks in each of his first seven seasons in the NFL.
Aidan Hutchinson Out to Improve After Career-Best Season
Hutchinson followed up his successful rookie season by setting a new career high with 11.5 sacks in 2023 but said he believes he has even more room to grow in 2024
.”I believe the entire year was a period of growth. I believe there was some difficulties as a team and individual. And it motivated me to learn as quickly as possible,” Hutchinson told Detroitlions.com’s Dannie Rogers. “However, I genuinely appreciate the process. That is exactly what it is all about. I feel like I made a lot of progress this year.
