The Detroit Lions have made serious strides under Dan Campbell, but if they want to take the next step-deep playoff contention and beyond-they’ll need to shore up a few key positions this offseason. Chief among them: edge rusher, center, left guard, and safety. These aren’t just minor depth concerns-these are spots where Detroit has consistently been hit hardest by injuries, and they’re starting to show cracks in a roster that’s otherwise built to win now.
Let’s focus on the edge for a moment. Aidan Hutchinson has been everything the Lions hoped for when they drafted him-relentless motor, high-level production, and the kind of presence that offenses have to game plan around.
But even with Hutchinson anchoring one side, Detroit hasn’t quite found the right complement on the opposite edge. Al-Quadin Muhammad has been serviceable, but if the front office isn’t sold on him as a long-term solution, they’ll need to look elsewhere for someone who can bring consistent heat off the edge.
Enter Trey Hendrickson.
Hendrickson, currently with the Cincinnati Bengals, is a name to watch as free agency approaches. He’s coming off a 2024 season where he reminded everyone of his pass-rushing prowess, but things have taken a turn this year.
Through seven games, Hendrickson has notched four sacks and a forced fumble-a noticeable dip in production-and he’s struggled to stay on the field. Now, he’s reportedly set to miss six weeks after undergoing core muscle surgery, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
That timeline bumps right up against the start of free agency, and it could significantly impact his market value.
That’s where things get interesting for Detroit.
Hendrickson was reportedly pushing for a contract in the ballpark of what Myles Garrett landed-a massive number north of $30 million annually over three to four years. The Bengals, true to form, weren’t eager to meet those demands, and extension talks stalled. Cincinnati rarely goes all-in on big-money deals for defensive stars, and after locking up Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins last offseason to keep their offensive core intact with Joe Burrow, it’s looking more and more like Hendrickson could be the odd man out.
From the Lions’ perspective, Hendrickson’s injury might actually work in their favor. A player of his caliber doesn’t usually come cheap, but with his recent health concerns and a down year statistically, the price tag may drop just enough to make him a realistic target-especially if other teams shy away.
Of course, the Lions will need to get creative with the cap. Right now, they’re projected to have about $4.8 million in space next season, and that’s before factoring in any new deals or roster moves.
Jared Goff, Taylor Decker, and Hutchinson all carry significant cap hits, and while some restructuring or trades could open up room, Detroit will have to be strategic. They also have their own extension priorities to consider, starting with rising star Jahmyr Gibbs.
Others like Sam LaPorta, Jack Campbell, and Brian Branch will be up for discussion soon enough as well.
Still, if Detroit believes Hendrickson can rebound and provide that much-needed firepower opposite Hutchinson, this could be the kind of calculated risk that pays off in a big way. He’s a proven pass rusher with double-digit sack potential, and pairing him with Hutchinson could give the Lions one of the most disruptive edge duos in the league.
Bottom line: Hendrickson’s market value just took a hit, but his upside hasn’t gone anywhere. If the Lions can maneuver the cap and make the numbers work, this is a move that could elevate their defense-and their postseason ceiling-in a hurry.