Detroit Lions Potential Replacement For Aidan Hutchinson Just Became Available

The Detroit Lions suffered a devastating blow to their defense in their Week 6 win over the Dallas Cowboys when star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson went down with what has been confirmed as a season-ending leg injury. Hutchinson was on pace for a career year, and his absence leaves a huge gap in Detroit’s pass rush. Now, the Lions may have an opportunity to make a blockbuster move to fill that void.

According to a recent report from Dianna Russini, the New York Jets have given star pass rusher Haason Reddick and his representatives a short window to seek a trade. Reddick, who is represented by Drew Rosenhaus, has already begun reaching out to potential teams to gauge interest in a deal.

Why Haason Reddick Could Be the Perfect Fit for Detroit

Reddick, who has not yet played a snap for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024, is one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL. His explosiveness and ability to get to the quarterback make him an ideal replacement for Hutchinson, and the Lions’ defense would undoubtedly benefit from his presence on the field. Reddick, who has recorded double-digit sacks in four consecutive seasons, would immediately provide the Lions with the edge-rushing help they desperately need.

With the Lions sitting at 4-1 and looking like legitimate contenders in the NFC, acquiring a player like Reddick could keep their Super Bowl hopes alive despite Hutchinson’s injury.

Compensation for Reddick

The potential trade won’t come without a cost. Though it is not know exactly what the Lions would have to give up to acquire Reddick, Josina Anderson is reporting that the Eagles are expected to receive a 2026 second-round pick from the Jets if Reddick is traded to an NFC team. While the Lions do have draft capital, they would need to weigh the long-term cost of giving up valuable picks for a short-term gain. But with Hutchinson out and Detroit in the thick of the playoff race, it could be a price worth paying.

Detroit’s Defense Needs Help

With Hutchinson sidelined, head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged the difficulty of losing one of his best players but expressed confidence in the rest of the defensive line, specifically mentioning Aaron Glenn’s ability to adapt and make the most of his personnel. While Hutchinson’s absence is a huge loss, acquiring Reddick would help soften the blow and keep Detroit’s defense at the top of its game.

The Lions have internal options like James Houston, Levi Onwuzurike, and Josh Paschal, but adding a proven veteran like Reddick would immediately elevate the defense to another level.

Will the Lions Make a Move?

The Lions are in win-now mode, and with the Jets willing to part ways with Reddick, this could be a rare opportunity for Detroit to add a top-tier talent to their roster. The next few days will be crucial as Brad Holmes and the Lions’ front office decide whether to make a push for Reddick. Given Detroit’s strong start and playoff aspirations, don’t be surprised if they make a move to bolster their defense for the second half of the season.

For now, Lions fans will have to wait and see whether Reddick ends up in Honolulu Blue and continues Detroit’s march toward the playoffs.