One of the biggest question marks the Detroit Lions are facing in the 2026 offseason is the future of pass rusher Al-Quadin Muhammad. After bouncing around the league, Muhammad finally had a breakout season with Detroit in 2025, offering the perfect option alongside Aidan Hutchinson. The duo would total 25.5 sacks, with Muhammad responsible for 11.0 of these. However, the defender's breakout came at an inopportune time for Detroit, as the pass rusher prepares to hit free agency at the start of the new league year.
It is clear not only that the Lions want to keep Muhammad, but the franchise needs to continue bolstering its pass rush. However, the issue here is finances that could keep the Lions from re-signing their target, despite their desire to lock in the defender's return. According to Over The Cap, Detroit has negative cap space with -$9.9 million as we head deeper into the offseason. This makes it clear that offseason improvements and re-signing their own players will be an uphill battle.
Muhammad is near the top of the list of risks to walk away due to the league's desperation to find a consistent pass rush and the double-digit sacks the defender offered. It will be tempting for teams chasing after the pass rusher to outbid the Lions and overpay for the promise of production. While this makes sense, it puts Detroit in a frustrating position and could mean losing Muhammad, no matter how hard they chase.
Lions Must Prepare Themselves for Increasing Possibility of Losing Muhammad in 2026 Offseason
This isn't to suggest that the Lions shouldn't be actively chasing the pass rusher to keep their star duo together. Rather, it points out the reality that a team in need of an improved pass rush might push a deal for Muhammad beyond what Detroit can reasonably offer.
It is an increasing possibility as you look at the edge market in free agency and the draft, and consider the few potential impact additions that can be made. Teams are going to see the 11.0 sacks and believe that in their system, the production can be as good or better. This will likely drive the price far out of a reasonable range for a player who has had one great season.
Still, Detroit must do everything in its power to attempt to retain Muhammad, understanding the impact he has and the help he was for Hutchinson. Having a threat on either side of the line is a luxury Lions fans were growing used to, one that now may be lost after a lone season due to free agency costs and a cap situation that is looking increasingly dark.