The Lions Needed Edge Rusher Help, and They Found It in Al-Quadin Muhammad
A Critical Need for Detroit’s Defense
The Detroit Lions faced a major setback in 2024 when star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson went down with an injury in Week 6. With their pass rush severely weakened, the team had to act fast to find a suitable replacement. Their solution? Signing veteran defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad, who had recently been released by the Dallas Cowboys. It was a move that turned out to be a game-changer for Detroit’s defense.
Muhammad’s Immediate Impact
Upon joining the Lions’ practice squad, Muhammad was quickly elevated to the active roster. He wasted no time making his presence felt. Over the course of 10 games, he racked up 26 pressures and three sacks while proving to be a formidable run stopper. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses gave the Lions’ defensive front a much-needed boost, earning him the admiration of both teammates and fans.
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Detroit Ensures His Return for 2025
With his impressive performance in 2024, Lions fans were eager to see Muhammad return for another season. The team responded by securing him on a one-year deal for 2025. While he may not be a superstar, his reliability and experience make him a valuable rotational piece in Detroit’s defensive scheme.
What This Means for the Lions’ Pass Rush
Re-signing Muhammad is a smart move, but it doesn’t mean the Lions are done addressing their edge rush needs. They could still target another veteran before the 2025 NFL Draft and may look to add one or two young pass rushers in the draft itself. The Lions’ defensive line is in better shape than many fans realize, and bringing back a productive player like Muhammad only strengthens it further.
A Promising Defensive Outlook
With Muhammad back in the fold, Detroit’s defense is shaping up to be more competitive in 2025. If he can continue to bring an improved pass rush—something he wasn’t widely known for before last season—he could carve out an even bigger role for himself. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on how the Lions continue to build their defensive front to take the next step toward championship contention.
