It appears the Detroit Lions could make a surprise move in free agency after frustrating injury news. The Lions looking at the remaining edge rushers makes sense, with one obvious fit sticking out of the remaining veterans looking for new landing spots. Za'Darius Smith returning to the franchise now makes sense with Josh Paschal's return remaining murky. Arguably, Smith was already an ideal fit for a franchise that could use a bit more depth when looking at rotational edge rushers. Considering Detroit's recent injury history, one would think there would be a bit more desperation to add to the position.
Looking at remaining options in free agency, two other names stand out with Drake Jackson and Jadeveon Clowney as obvious potential fits. Clowney is particularly interesting based on the veteran's accomplished resume. Bringing in the veteran could be a great fit, even if it is in a lesser rotational role.
Clowney or Smith both give you an outside chance of finding a surprise option at the position. At this point in free agency, it appears either player could be signed to a bargain contract. Something the Lions must now explore after the latest frustrating injury update.
Lions HC Dan Campbell says it looks like it's going to take longer for EDGE Josh Paschal to get back than expected. Thought he'd be back practicing in September.
— Ben Raven (@BenjaminSRaven) August 21, 2025
Lions Must Make Free Agency Move on the Heels of Frustrating Injury Update
According to Ben Raven, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell made it clear that Josh Paschal isn't making the progress that was expected. The fact that he is going to miss an even longer chunk of time should create a new sense of urgency. Campbell is often positive when it comes to these updates looking at the glass half full approach. Such a negative update is telling of where Paschal is in his rehab, and demands the Lions consider making a move.
If the franchise doesn't want to shop in the bargain aisles of free agency, a nuclear option could be targeting Trey Hendrickson. Last year's sack leader is believed to be on the trade market after being unable to reach a deal with the Bengals. If there is one move that pushes the Lions clearly in front of the Eagles as NFC favorites, it would be the splashy addition of Hendrickson.
However, it seems the more likely path for Detroit is a reunion with Smith or bringing in Clowney to see if there is anything left in the tank. A splashy move at this point in the year remains unlikely, no matter how exciting the fit might be.