The Detroit Lions sustained one major injury so far in training camp, and if the loss of Levi Onwuzurike can provide one lesson, it's that depth is always needed up front.
While a reunion with Za'Darius Smith still makes the most sense, the Lions shouldn't be turning their nose up at any potential additions that could help the pass rush. That's why it was very encouraging to hear about the latest object of their affection in free agency.
According to a report from Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, the Lions have looked into signing Matthew Judon. The veteran pass rusher has stood out as a quality option for months given his sterling career. Judon has collected 410 tackles and 72 career sacks, most recently posting 5.5 sacks for the Atlanta Falcons in 2024.
While Judon may not have played in Detroit, he has played in Michigan, graduating from West Bloomfield High School and Grand Valley State. He knows the lay of the land in spite of never playing in the NFC until last season, and could add the perfect amount of veteran punch and leadership up front.
Adding Judon would take the pressure off Marcus Davenport, who the Lions are expecting to have a big season. While Aidan Hutchinson is looking healthy, it would also allow him another way to stay fresh rather than stressed early in the year.
The Lions will have to decide whether Smith or Judon makes the most sense for them, but the sensible move is certainly to add a veteran of that caliber to the roster just before the season.
Kelvin Sheppard's comments hint at need for a Judon signing
The Lions drafted Ahmed Hassanein in the sixth-round as a pass rush option in 2025, and while he has looked impressive thus far and meshed with the team, it's important to understand where he stands as a developmental player.
Sheppard likes where Hassanein is at right now, but also cautioned that he might not be ready to make a huge impact on the Lions even though he is physically and mentally gifted for a youngster.
"It's just that development piece, the learning curve. That's why I don't want people to start saying, 'Is he the answer' and all. This guy's a rookie. He just started playing football six years ago. He just learned the freaking English language six, seven years ago. Let's not turn this guy into Lawrence Taylor or something. This is a rookie"
With this quote in mind, it makes sense the Lions would hunt for a veteran addition to the pass rush. Someone like Judon can make an instant impact, where it might take Hassanein time to adjust to the speed of the league as the preseason and regular season evolve.
If the Lions and Sheppard aren't convinced Hassanein can make an immediate impact, it could lead them to an outside move. In this scenario, Judon makes plenty of sense as the franchise's long-awaited veteran pass rush addition.
