The most recent 2024 NFL mock draft by The Athletic, published on January 10, predicts that the Detroit Lions will focus on bolstering their defense by targeting an edge rusher. Nick Baumgardner, the author of the mock draft, specifically envisions the Lions selecting Ohio State’s JT Tuimoloau with the 28th overall pick in the first round. Baumgardner goes so far as to label Tuimoloau as the “missing piece” essential for fortifying the Lions’ defense, emphasizing the potential synergy between Tuimoloau and the formidable Aidan Hutchinson.
Aidan Hutchinson, who concluded the 2023 season as the NFL’s second-highest in pressures, operated with minimal support on the opposite side of the defense. Baumgardner contends that pairing Hutchinson, a versatile three-down player, with the specialized pass-rushing skills of Tuimoloau could be the key to elevating Dan Campbell’s defensive strategy.
While the Lions managed an impressive feat with 18 different defenders recording sacks in 2023, the lack of significant contribution from these players—half of whom secured only one sack—underscores the need for a potent pass rusher. Hutchinson, with 11.5 sacks, accounted for over a quarter of the team’s total sacks.
Despite finishing the regular season at the top in pressure rate, quarterback knockdown percentage, and hurry rate, the Lions struggled to convert these statistical advantages into a higher sack count, tying for 23rd in the league with 41 sacks. Tuimoloau, who demonstrated his prowess with 12 sacks in 35 games at Ohio State, could offer the missing link to amplify the Lions’ defensive effectiveness.
It’s worth noting that other mock drafts also project the Lions targeting edge rushers in the upcoming draft. Pro Football Focus’ Trevor Sikkema and ESPN’s Jordan Reid both foresee the Lions selecting edge rushers—Bralen Trice from Washington in particular. However, the Lions still have linebacker James Houston, who was originally expected to complement Hutchinson but has been sidelined due to an ankle injury since Week 2 of the season. Whether the Lions opt for an edge rusher in the first round will likely depend on Houston’s recovery and their assessment of their defensive needs.
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