The Detroit Lions are on the hunt for a solid replacement for Aidan Hutchinson, who’s unfortunately out for the season with a broken tibia. With the trade deadline approaching on November 5, the team is pushing to secure a strong pass-rusher to keep their defense competitive.
While some fans may be hoping for a big name like Maxx Crosby from the Raiders, many experts think the best move might actually be going for a talented, underrated player who can step up without the superstar price tag.
One of the top candidates on their radar is Azeez Ojulari from the New York Giants. At just 24, Ojulari has been on a hot streak, racking up three sacks in his last two games and boasting four sacks, four tackles for loss, and six quarterback pressures this season. With the Giants struggling this year, they might be open to trading him, making Ojulari a realistic option for Detroit.
Ojulari’s skill set seems to match up well with what the Lions need. According to Doug Farrar from Athlon Sports, Ojulari’s quickness and agility stand out; he may not rely on sheer power, but his blend of speed and diverse moves makes him a handful for blockers. His style could fit seamlessly with the Lions’ defense, giving them a way to pressure quarterbacks effectively without having to reinvent their playbook.
Apart from Ojulari, other names floating around as potential Lions targets include Chase Young from the Saints and Za’Darius Smith from the Browns. But Ojulari’s consistency and unique skill set might make him Detroit’s best shot at adding the pass-rush power they’re missing without Hutchinson.
If the Lions can lock down a talented pass-rusher by the trade deadline, they’re looking at a real chance for a solid playoff push. And who knows? If Hutchinson manages to recover in time for a postseason return, Detroit’s defensive front could be a serious threat, positioning them for a deep playoff run. With the right pieces falling into place, the Lions could be on their way to making history and ending a long championship drought.
