Detroit Lions Trade Deadline: 7 Potential Replacements for Aidan Hutchinson
As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the Detroit Lions find themselves in an unfamiliar position – playoff contenders with legitimate aspirations. However, a recent blow to their defensive front could significantly hinder their momentum. Star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, the team’s 2022 first-round pick and the anchor of their pass rush, is reportedly dealing with a serious injury. While there is no official confirmation on how long Hutchinson might be sidelined, the Lions need to act quickly if they hope to keep their defense competitive in a tightly contested NFC.
With the deadline looming, Detroit has a rare opportunity to capitalize on their current position by seeking out a replacement to fill Hutchinson’s shoes. Here are seven players the Lions could target as potential trade options:
Danielle Hunter (Minnesota Vikings)
Hunter is one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL and has been a force for the Minnesota Vikings for several years. With the Vikings struggling this season and potentially looking to offload high-salary veterans, Hunter could be a prime trade candidate. He has recorded double-digit sacks multiple times in his career and could immediately give Detroit a dominant presence on the edge.
Hunter is playing on an expiring contract, which might make him a rental for the Lions, but it could be a worthwhile risk. His speed, technique, and veteran leadership would give the Lions defense a much-needed boost, especially in a playoff push.
Brian Burns (Carolina Panthers)
Another intriguing name for the Lions to consider is Brian Burns from the Carolina Panthers. Burns has been one of the most consistent and disruptive edge rushers in the league since he was drafted in 2019. While the Panthers view Burns as a cornerstone of their future, the team is struggling in 2023, and a complete rebuild could be on the horizon. Burns is currently in the final year of his rookie deal, so Detroit could potentially make a play for the talented edge rusher.
Burns would be a long-term addition if the Lions can work out a contract extension, and pairing him with a healthy Hutchinson in the future could give Detroit a dominant duo for years to come.
Montez Sweat (Washington Commanders)
Montez Sweat is another name to watch as the Washington Commanders could be looking to make moves at the deadline. Washington is facing a bit of a logjam with multiple high-profile defensive linemen set to command large contracts, and they may choose to move on from Sweat to recoup draft assets.
Sweat has been a reliable pass rusher and a physical force on the edge. He has the size and athleticism that could fit well in Detroit’s defensive scheme. Given his production and potential upside, he could be a great addition, especially if Washington is willing to part ways for a reasonable price.
Josh Uche (New England Patriots)
With the New England Patriots entering a possible rebuilding phase, edge rusher Josh Uche could be available. Uche, who had a breakout 2022 season with 11.5 sacks, has been a bit quieter this year, but the talent is undeniable. His speed off the edge and ability to get after the quarterback could be exactly what Detroit needs to fill the void left by Hutchinson.
Uche is young, versatile, and still on his rookie contract, making him a cost-effective option for the Lions. Additionally, Uche’s ability to play in different defensive fronts would give the Lions’ coaching staff flexibility in their play-calling.
Chase Young (Washington Commanders)
The former No. 2 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Chase Young, has had a tumultuous career so far, mostly due to injuries. However, when healthy, Young has shown flashes of being a dominant defensive force. With Washington’s uncertain future and the team’s deep defensive line, Young could be available at the deadline.
Young has only played sporadically over the past two seasons, but he has the potential to be a game-changer if he stays healthy. The Lions could take a chance on Young, knowing that the upside is tremendous. At only 25 years old, Young could still develop into one of the league’s premier pass rushers if given the right opportunity.
Carl Lawson (New York Jets)
Carl Lawson is another under-the-radar option for the Lions. Lawson has dealt with injuries in recent seasons but has proven to be a productive pass rusher when healthy. The New York Jets’ defense is stacked with talent, and Lawson has seen his playing time diminish, making him a potential trade target.
Lawson’s quickness off the line and ability to disrupt plays in the backfield could make him a valuable addition to Detroit’s defense. He might not have the star power of other players on this list, but Lawson could provide immediate impact at a lower cost.
Yannick Ngakoue (Chicago Bears)
Veteran pass rusher Yannick Ngakoue could be another option for the Lions. Ngakoue signed a one-year deal with the Chicago Bears, but with the Bears in rebuild mode, they may be looking to move veteran players for future assets. Ngakoue has been a productive edge rusher throughout his career, with multiple seasons of 8+ sacks.
Ngakoue’s ability to create pressure consistently would make him a good stop-gap solution for Detroit. While he may not have the long-term upside of a player like Burns or Young, Ngakoue is reliable and could provide immediate results for a Lions team that needs to maintain its pass rush.
Conclusion
With the Detroit Lions in the midst of a promising season, losing Aidan Hutchinson for any extended period of time could be devastating. However, with the right trade acquisition, the Lions can stay competitive in their quest for an NFC North title and a deep playoff run.
Danielle Hunter and Brian Burns stand out as top-tier options if the Lions are willing to make a bold move, but other players like Montez Sweat and Josh Uche offer a blend of upside and cost-effectiveness. Whichever direction Detroit decides to go, making a trade for a pass rusher could be the key to keeping their defensive unit intact as they chase postseason glory.
Leave a Reply