The Detroit Lions are reportedly expected to push strongly to add a quality pass-rusher via trade after superstar defensive end Aidan Hutchinson suffered a fractured tibia and fibula in Sunday’s 47-9 win over the Dallas Cowboys.
With star edge-rusher Aidan Hutchinson out for the rest of the season with a fractured leg, the Detroit Lions need to bring somebody in who can produce somewhere close to what they are losing.
ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported that the Lions have “checked in” with the New York Jets and Pro Bowl defensive end Haason Reddick.
Fowler added that it might just be “diligence” on the part of the Lions as general manager Brad Holmes considers different options with the loss of Aidan Hutchinson.
“The Lions have checked in on the Haason Reddick situation, per source. Could just be diligence. But Dan Campbell promised that GM Brad Holmes is doing his homework, and that appears to be the case here,” Fowler wrote.
The #Lions have checked in on the Haason Reddick situation, per source. Could just be diligence. But Dan Campbell promised that GM Brad Holmes is doing his homework and that appears to be the case here. https://t.co/Wueh5pfTDt
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) October 16, 2024
This would be perfect timing since the New York Jets just gave him permission to seek a trade amid his contract dispute.
The Jets have refused to meet Reddick’s contract demands up to this point, arguing they “have been clear, direct and consistent in our position” regarding a new deal for him since before acquiring the Pro Bowler via trade in April.
It remains to be seen if the Detroit Lions would be willing to pay him what he wants if they think he could help them achieve their ultimate goal by filling in for Aidan Hutchinson.
Losing Aidan Hutchinson Means The Detroit Lions Take A Huge Hit In Super Bowl Chances
Lions star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson will be out four to six months with a broken left tibia and fibula, coach Dan Campbell said this week.
If the team can make it that far, that would put his potential return this year around the Super Bowl.
The 6-foot-7, 268-pound star defensive end entered Week 6, leading the NFL with 6.5 sacks despite playing just four games.
The Lions were just one game and a double-digit lead from playing in the Super Bowl last year.
