The Lions still need help off the edge, but the biggest names are already off the board. With Khalil Mack staying put and Maxx Crosby traded, Detroit may need to get creative. Here are three realistic pass rushers who could end up wearing Honolulu Blue.
The Detroit Lions should be in the market for a pass rusher in free agency. Detroit’s defensive line improved in 2025, but adding another edge defender would give the unit more depth and help take pressure off Aidan Hutchinson.
Several big names that once looked like possibilities are now off the board. Khalil Mack is no longer available after re-signing, and the idea of trading for Maxx Crosby disappeared after he was reportedly dealt to the Baltimore Ravens for two first-round picks. With those options gone, the Lions may have to look at more realistic free-agent additions.
Here are three pass rushers who could realistically end up in Detroit.
1. Cam Jordan
Veteran defensive end Cam Jordan could make sense as a short-term option for the Lions. The longtime New Orleans Saints star is 36 years old, so any deal would likely be for one year. However, he continues to produce at a high level and could give Detroit valuable experience along the defensive line.
According to Pro Football Focus, Jordan posted a 76.0 overall grade in 2025. His run defense remained elite, earning an 82.1 run-defense grade, which ranked fourth among edge defenders. Jordan also recorded 10 sacks, one forced fumble and two batted passes while playing 589 snaps.
Beyond the numbers, Jordan has ties to Lions head coach Dan Campbell from their time together in New Orleans. Campbell values veteran leadership, and Jordan’s presence could help both on the field and in the locker room. Even in a rotational role, he could still be a productive piece of Detroit’s defensive front.
2. Al-Quadin Muhammad
Another intriguing option is a familiar face. Defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad played for Detroit previously and could end up staying with the team after a breakout season.
Muhammad recorded 12 sacks in 2025, the best production of his career. His performance also graded well analytically. According to Pro Football Focus, he finished with a 74.3 overall defensive grade and a 71.9 pass-rush grade.
He also generated consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, finishing with 32 quarterback hurries and 53 total pressures across 457 snaps.
At 30 years old, Muhammad still has plenty of football left and would likely come at a reasonable cost compared with bigger-name pass rushers. Continuity could also play a role. If the Lions’ coaching staff liked what they saw last season, keeping him in Detroit may make sense.
3. Odafe Oweh
Odafe Oweh is another name worth monitoring. The former Baltimore Ravens pass rusher was traded to the Los Angeles Chargers during the season, but his future there could be uncertain after the Chargers brought back Khalil Mack.
If the Chargers choose not to keep Oweh long-term, he could become an interesting option on the market.
Oweh produced solid numbers in 2025. He finished with eight sacks, 47 total pressures and 30 quarterback hurries while playing 513 snaps. His Pro Football Focus grades included a 73.7 pass-rush grade and a 62.5 run-defense grade.
At just 26 years old, Oweh would be the youngest option on this list. That could make him especially appealing for Detroit, which has focused on adding players who still have upside. If the Lions want a pass rusher who could grow alongside the rest of their young defensive core, Oweh could be a strong candidate.
Conclusion
The Lions may not land the biggest name in free agency, but they still have several realistic options who could improve their pass rush. Cam Jordan would bring leadership and proven production, Al-Quadin Muhammad offers familiarity and recent success, and Odafe Oweh provides youth and upside.
If Detroit wants to continue building a deep and disruptive defensive line, adding one of these pass rushers could be a smart move heading into the 2026 season.