The Detroit Lions’ pass rush has been a story of quiet surprises and calculated gambles this season-and it’s paying off in ways that might not have been obvious back in September.
Let’s start with the headline stat: the Lions have not one, but two defenders with nine sacks apiece-Aidan Hutchinson and Al-Quadin Muhammad. Hutchinson, the former No. 2 overall pick, is the name everyone expects to see.
But Muhammad? That’s the twist.
Signed as more of a rotational piece, Muhammad has carved out a role that’s grown with each passing week. His production has been a pleasant surprise for a defensive front that needed someone to step up opposite Hutchinson.
When the Lions passed on big-name edge rushers like Za’Darius Smith in the offseason, there were more than a few raised eyebrows. But credit general manager Brad Holmes-he’s trusted his evaluations and found value in overlooked places.
Muhammad is one of those wins. He’s not just filling a role; he’s making an impact.
Now, with the Miami Dolphins eliminated from postseason contention, another name has hit the waiver wire: Matthew Judon. On paper, Judon brings experience and a history of production. But if you’re wondering whether the Lions should make a move here, the answer feels more like a shrug than a yes.
Judon hasn’t looked like himself this season. Through 13 games, he’s posted zero sacks, 10 pressures, and just three quarterback hits.
That’s a far cry from the disruptive force he once was. And while the Lions’ pass rush could use more consistency-especially with Marcus Davenport battling injuries-Judon doesn’t look like the missing piece.
It’s not that the Lions’ defensive line has been bad. In fact, the raw numbers are respectable.
But the issue has been rhythm. This group hasn’t strung together enough dominant series or games to really impose its will.
Hutchinson has had moments, but he hasn’t quite recaptured the explosive form we saw in 2024 before his leg injury. Muhammad has flashed, but in bursts.
And with Davenport struggling to stay healthy, the rotation has been thinner than ideal.
Could Judon provide depth? Sure.
But would he move the needle? That’s a tougher sell.
He’d likely be a situational piece at best-someone to rotate in and spell the starters, not a game-changer. And if we’ve learned anything about this Lions regime, it’s that they’re not in the business of making moves just to make them.
This front office has stayed patient, even when outside pressure mounted. They passed on veteran help for the secondary earlier this season, opting not to pursue players like Asante Samuel Jr. or Darius Slay.
The message, whether fans love it or not, has been consistent: *“We’re good.” *
And maybe they are. The Lions have built this roster with a long view in mind.
They’ve trusted their process, leaned into player development, and avoided the temptation to chase short-term fixes. That approach has gotten them this far-and unless something changes drastically, don’t expect them to veer off course now.
So while Judon’s name might spark some interest, don’t count on Detroit to jump in. They’ve already found their surprise contributor in Muhammad. And unless the right fit comes along, they’re content to ride with the guys who got them here.