It is clear that the Detroit Lions' pass rush needs additional depth as we go deeper into the 2025 season. Depth that could be found from the one rival to Detroit's hopes of NFC dominance.
The Philadelphia Eagles have had both Azeez Ojulari and Ogbo Okoronkwo inactive through the first three weeks of the season. A talented pass rush has simply kept both veteran pieces out of the lineup due to superior options. However, this is expected to change in Week 4 with an injury to Nolan Smith opening the door to another active roster spot.
It seems like Ojulari probably has the inside edge based on past experience. Regardless, whichever player is inactive when the Eagles take on Tampa Bay, the Lions shouldn't hesitate to pounce on the opportunity. You badly need additional rotational options, and Philly is likely going to be open to a trade based simply on the fact that they have no active roster spot for whichever player is inactive. While landing Trey Hendrickson or a blockbuster addition is more enticing, it is unlikely at this point in the season.
Lions Fans Should be Keeping an Eye on Eagles' Game Day Roster to Find New Pass-Rushing Option
If the Lions are going to bring in a top pass rusher from this year's trade market, it is going to take patience. Waiting for struggling teams to completely fall out of the playoff picture and being far more open to dealing star players. Now is the time to attempt to bring in reclamation projects or players who find themselves on the outs on their current roster.
The Eagles are the best example of this based on the incredible pass-rushing depth that allows two players who would be starting for a handful of teams to be inactives the first three weeks of the season. Whichever of the duo finds themselves again sitting on game day should be at the top of Detroit's priority list.
It seems likely that a late-round pick would get a deal, and the Lions would have a great chance at finding a surprise contributor. Ojulari is the more enticing of the two options, having had productive seasons with the Giants. Putting his talent at the bottom of Detroit's pass-rushing rotation is a needed boost, but not one that is going to prevent future moves at the position.
No question, fans should be keeping a close eye on Philly's Week 4 inactive with the understanding that it could signal a future Lions move.