The Detroit Lions didn’t wait around—they went and got their guy. Trading up for Derrick Moore, Detroit just paired him with Aidan Hutchinson to form a homegrown pass-rush duo that could terrorize the NFL for years.
The Detroit Lions made an aggressive move early on Day 2 of the NFL draft, trading up to secure a key defensive piece. Detroit sent picks No. 50 and No. 128 to the New York Jets in exchange for pick No. 44, wasting little time addressing one of its biggest roster needs. Notably, pick No. 128 was originally acquired in the trade involving running back David Montgomery, making this a full-circle moment in the Lions’ roster-building strategy.
With the 44th overall pick, Detroit selected edge rusher Derrick Moore out of the University of Michigan, continuing a clear trend of investing in high-level defensive talent with local ties. The selection pairs Moore with fellow Michigan product Aidan Hutchinson, giving the Lions two in-state pass rushers expected to anchor the defensive front for years to come.
The move signals intent from general manager Brad Holmes and the front office. After addressing the offensive line in the first round, Detroit has now filled its two most pressing needs within the first two days of the draft. Moore becomes the first edge defender the Lions have selected in the top two rounds since 2022, when they drafted Hutchinson and Josh Paschal.
Moore projects as a strong stylistic fit for Detroit’s defensive identity. Known for his power, relentless motor and physicality, he excels with a bull rush and shows a consistent willingness to set the edge against the run. His unselfish play style and discipline make him a natural fit in a scheme that values toughness and effort as much as production.
A former four-star recruit, Moore developed into one of the most productive pass rushers in the Big Ten. In 2025, he earned an 89.9 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, including a 92.4 pass-rush grade that ranked eighth nationally. He also posted a 76.3 run-defense grade, highlighting his three-down ability. The previous season, Moore recorded a 77.1 overall grade with an 86.6 pass-rush mark, showing clear growth in his game.
Statistically, Moore delivered a standout 2025 campaign. He recorded 11 sacks, two forced fumbles, nine quarterback hits, 41 total pressures and three batted passes across 440 snaps. His 17.5% pressure rate ranked among the best in the conference, underscoring his efficiency as a pass rusher. Over his career, Moore totaled 62 solo tackles, 24.5 tackles for loss, 24.5 sacks, eight pass deflections and three forced fumbles.
Beyond production, Moore brought leadership to the Wolverines’ program, serving as a team captain in 2025. His physical profile aligns closely with Detroit’s preferences along the defensive front. He measured 6-foot-3 3/8 and 257 pounds at his Pro Day, with 33 7/8-inch arms and an 81 1/4-inch wingspan, giving him the length teams covet at the position.
Moore’s athletic testing was somewhat limited due to a lingering hamstring injury. He did not participate in the 40-yard dash or agility drills, either at the NFL Scouting Combine or Michigan’s Pro Day. However, he recorded a 30-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot-7 broad jump, numbers that reflect solid explosiveness for the position.
Despite the incomplete testing profile, evaluators remain optimistic about Moore’s upside. His film shows a player capable of generating pressure through power and technique, with flashes of quickness that can catch offensive tackles off guard. Draft analyst Matt Miller noted Moore’s first-step quickness and production, suggesting his skill set should translate well at the next level, particularly alongside an established presence like Hutchinson.
For Detroit, the selection reinforces a clear defensive vision. By pairing Moore with Hutchinson, the Lions are building a formidable pass-rush duo rooted in familiarity, production and physicality. If Moore continues his upward trajectory, this move could prove to be another cornerstone addition for a team looking to take the next step toward contention.