Is Josh Sweat the Missing Piece for the Detroit Lions Defense?

Detroit’s Defensive Puzzle Needs a Final Piece

The Detroit Lions have transformed into one of the most exciting teams in the NFL, but their defense remains a work in progress. While the unit showed flashes of dominance last season, inconsistencies—especially in the pass rush—prevented them from reaching their full potential.

With the offseason in full swing, the Lions are actively exploring ways to bolster their defense. One name that continues to surface is Philadelphia Eagles edge rusher Josh Sweat. Could he be the missing piece Detroit needs to solidify its defense?

A Proven Pass Rusher with Elite Potential

Josh Sweat has quietly become one of the most underrated edge rushers in the league. Over the past few seasons, he has established himself as a relentless force on the Eagles’ defensive line. With his combination of size, speed, and power, Sweat consistently creates havoc in opposing backfields.

In 2023, he recorded 45 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 16 quarterback hits, proving his ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt plays. While his numbers may not jump off the page, his impact goes far beyond the stat sheet. He draws double teams, collapses pockets, and forces quarterbacks into bad decisions—all traits the Lions desperately need.

How Sweat Fits Into Detroit’s Defensive Scheme

Detroit’s defensive front is already anchored by Aidan Hutchinson, who has developed into a premier pass rusher. However, the team has struggled to find a consistent threat on the opposite side. Adding Sweat to the mix would provide the Lions with a lethal one-two punch, creating more opportunities for sacks and turnovers.

Sweat’s ability to set the edge and stop the run would also be a major asset for Detroit. The Lions struggled at times against strong rushing attacks, and having a versatile defender like Sweat could help shore up those weaknesses. His presence would free up Hutchinson and the interior linemen to play more aggressively, making the entire front seven more dangerous.

What Would It Take to Get Sweat?

Acquiring a player of Sweat’s caliber won’t come cheap. If the Eagles are open to moving him, Detroit would likely need to part with a valuable draft pick or a combination of picks and players. Given their current trajectory, the Lions may be willing to make that investment.

Financially, Sweat is under contract through 2024, but any team acquiring him would likely look to restructure his deal for long-term stability. Detroit has the cap space to make a move, but they will need to weigh whether investing heavily in a pass rusher is their top priority.

Is Sweat the Final Piece?

The Lions have built a strong foundation, but to take the next step as true Super Bowl contenders, their defense must become more dominant. Josh Sweat brings everything Detroit needs—explosiveness, versatility, and proven production.

If the Lions can make a deal happen, Sweat could be the final piece that turns their defense from good to elite.