Detroit Lions Eyeing Elite Pass-Rusher Josh Sweat in Free Agency

A Critical Offseason for Detroit’s Defense

The Detroit Lions are entering a pivotal offseason, with a clear focus on upgrading their pass rush. After falling short in the playoffs, Detroit’s front office, led by general manager Brad Holmes, is determined to bolster both the EDGE position and the interior defensive line. However, the team’s most pressing need remains at EDGE, where a reliable counterpart for Aidan Hutchinson has yet to emerge.

Josh Sweat: A Premier Free-Agent Target

If the Lions choose to address this need through free agency, Philadelphia Eagles EDGE rusher Josh Sweat stands out as an ideal candidate. Sweat has established himself as one of the most consistent and explosive pass-rushers in the league, making him a highly coveted player in the upcoming free-agent market.

Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 265 pounds, Sweat delivered a dominant performance in Super Bowl 59, solidifying his reputation as a game-changer. Against the Kansas City Chiefs, he registered six total tackles, two tackles for loss, three quarterback hits, and an impressive two-and-a-half sacks on Patrick Mahomes. His ability to disrupt elite quarterbacks makes him an attractive option for any team seeking a defensive upgrade.

Consistent Production and Proven Performance

Sweat’s impressive track record speaks volumes. Since being drafted by the Eagles in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, he has accumulated 43 career sacks. His consistency has been remarkable, recording at least six sacks in every season since 2020. His career-best year came in 2022 when he notched 11 sacks, showcasing his ability to thrive against top-tier offensive lines.

In the most recent regular season, the 27-year-old compiled eight sacks, 37 quarterback hurries, and 54 total pressures. Pro Football Focus awarded him a solid 71.5 pass-rush grade, with an overall grade of 75.7—ranking him 28th among 211 qualified EDGE defenders. Such production underscores his reliability and effectiveness in creating pressure.

Can the Lions Afford Him?

Given his elite status, Sweat is expected to command a significant contract on the open market. According to projections from Spotrac, he could land a three-year, $56.4 million deal, averaging approximately $18.8 million per season. This hefty price tag may pose a challenge for the Lions, as Holmes has been judicious in free-agent spending.

However, if Detroit is willing to make a bold investment, securing Sweat would provide an immediate and substantial upgrade to the defense. Pairing him with Hutchinson would give the Lions one of the most formidable pass-rushing duos in the NFC, significantly improving their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks and control the line of scrimmage.

A Game-Changing Decision for Detroit

As the Lions weigh their options, the pursuit of Josh Sweat could be a defining move for the franchise. While financial constraints may play a role, the potential impact of adding a high-caliber EDGE rusher alongside Hutchinson is undeniable. If Holmes decides to make a serious push for Sweat, Detroit could take a major step toward building a championship-caliber defense.