The Detroit Lions are facing a pivotal decision this offseason regarding their defensive end position. Before they can entertain the idea of pursuing big names like Maxx Crosby or Trey Hendrickson, they need to address their own free agent situation with Al-Quadin Muhammad.
Let's dive into Muhammad's current scenario, the potential cost of re-signing him, and whether the Lions should make that move.
Al-Quadin Muhammad’s 2025 Season
Heading into the 2025 season, expectations for Muhammad were modest. In 2024, he showed promise with 3.0 sacks in nine games, but nothing was guaranteed for the following year.
The return of Marcus Davenport and the drafting of Ahmed Hassanein meant Muhammad’s spot on the roster wasn't secure. However, a series of injuries at the EDGE position shifted the landscape.
With Levi Onwuzurike out for the year and Josh Paschal sidelined, Muhammad became a crucial player, one of just three defensive ends retained on the initial 50-man roster.
Performance on the Field
Muhammad exceeded expectations in 2025, stepping up when Davenport was injured. He became one of the Lions' most effective pass rushers, finishing the season with 11 sacks and 53 pressures.
Despite these impressive stats, he didn't start any games, indicating the Lions' hesitance to trust him on early downs due to his run defense struggles. Standing at 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds, Muhammad isn't the all-around player the Lions ideally want as a starter.
His limitations in holding the edge were evident, as the team rotated players like Tyler Lacy and Pat O’Connor to complement Aidan Hutchinson.
Still, Muhammad's value was undeniable. He ranked in the top-25 in the NFL for sacks, pass rush win rate, and PFF’s pass rush productivity.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Pros of Re-signing Muhammad
The Lions need depth at the defensive end, especially with Davenport likely moving on. Muhammad has proven effective in a rotational role, providing a physical rush that aligns with the Lions' needs. His part-time role was impactful, and having more pass rushers is always beneficial.
Cons of Re-signing Muhammad
Re-signing Muhammad won't solve the Lions' need for a starting-caliber player opposite Hutchinson. He's not a three-down player, and the roster lacks someone who can fill that role. If the Lions are investing in the EDGE position, it might be wiser to allocate funds towards a more versatile player.
Interest from Both Sides
Muhammad expressed a desire to return to the Lions, appreciating the opportunity they provided. Lions GM Brad Holmes acknowledged Muhammad's performance but emphasized the need to bolster the position. Head coach Dan Campbell praised Muhammad's versatility and commitment, highlighting his contributions on special teams.
Financial Considerations
The decision largely hinges on cost. If the Lions can secure Muhammad on an affordable deal without hindering their ability to sign a starting-capable player, it’s a move worth considering. However, overpaying for a third-down specialist wouldn't be prudent.
The EDGE market is deep this offseason, potentially driving Muhammad's price down. While OverTheCap values him at over $10 million, Spotrac suggests $7.9 million. A more realistic figure might be around $6 million with incentives, though even that could be steep for the Lions.
Conclusion
The Lions face a tough choice. Retaining one of their few effective pass rushers is tempting, but not at the cost of overspending on a part-time player.
If they can negotiate a deal in the $4-6 million range, spreading the cap hit over two years, it could be a worthwhile investment. Otherwise, it might be time to explore other options.