The Detroit Lions coaching staff and front office have made it clear that they are betting on the defensive ends already on the roster to provide a pass rush opposite of Aidan Hutchinson. Although veteran Marcus Davenport has had a good training camp, questions still remain about whether he can stay healthy for an entire season.
If he can, Detroit will only have to occasionally rely on the depth for rotational pass rush. Veteran Al-Quadin Muhammad may end up being someone the Lions use as a rotational pass rusher. Muhammad was an active part of the Lions' pass rush in 2024 due to all the injuries, but he didn't do much to stand out.
That said, before Thursday's joint practice, head coach Dan Campbell spoke to the media and was asked about Muhammad. According to Pride of Detroit, Campbell said," He's had a really good camp. Tough, relentless, and has gotten better in the run game".
Dan Campbell when asked about Al-Quadin Muhammad.
— Pride of Detroit (@PrideOfDetroit) August 14, 2025
"He's had a really good camp."
Tough. Relentless. Gotten better in the run game.
Al-Quadin Muhammad Receives Praise from Dan Campbell
Campbell's comments on Muhammad should be slightly encouraging to Lions fans. Last year, the 30-year-old recorded 11 tackles, three sacks, and one pass defensed. Furthermore, he received a 48.7 run defense grade, according to PFF.
His run defense grade in 2024 was by far the worst in his eight-year NFL career, so hearing it has improved this camp is a positive sign. As it stands right now, the veteran is listed as the backup to Hutchinson. However, that could change with a few young players emerging.
Second-year defensive end Nate Lynn has looked great thus far in the preseason. The 23-year-old has recorded seven tackles, one sack, and six quarterback hurries. This has helped him earn an 89.9 pass rush grade, a 68.4 run defense grade, and an 89.9 overall grade.
Moreover, rookie Ahmed Hassanein has had some impressive moments in camp and the preseason. Though he is currently dealing with an injury, when he returns, he could end up passing Muhammad on the depth chart.
Even so, he will likely make the Lions' initial 53-man roster given the injuries they have among their defensive line. Nevertheless, even with Campbell's praise of Muhammad, he could still end up being cut once Josh Paschal returns if Lynn and Hassanein keep impressing.