The Detroit Lions have several defensive concerns to address this offseason, and bolstering their pass rush should be a priority.
This season, Detroit struggled to compensate for the loss of Aidan Hutchinson. On top of that, injuries to key depth players up front created challenges as the season progressed. However, with the offseason providing a chance to reset, the Lions can look for solutions.
Historically, Detroit has not been known for extravagant spending, instead opting to uncover hidden gems to strengthen the roster. That approach could once again come into play, and one potential fit is edge rusher Josh Uche.
Josh Uche Highlighted as a Top Bargain Free Agent
Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay recently named Uche among seven “bargain bin” free agents, citing his impressive pass-rushing ability.
“When he’s been on the field, Uche consistently posted one of the league’s highest pass-rush win rates over the past three seasons. Even during a trying 2024 campaign, he still ranked amongst the top-15 edge defenders in that category prior to being dealt to the Chiefs,” Kay noted.
“Although undersized at 6’1″, 240 pounds—making him a liability against the run—Uche could still be deployed situationally and find immense success in the right packages. Considering he’s set to make far less than the two-year, $15 million deal he reportedly turned down before re-upping with the Pats, Uche may ultimately go down as one of the best value signings of the 2025 offseason.”
“He may not shine unless he catches on with the right team that can hide his flaws in the run game, but Uche is still just 26 years old and has shown he can be a devastating disruptor. Just about every contender that lacks depth on the edge should be interested in bringing Uche aboard at a bargain price.”
Given his potential availability at a discounted rate, Uche could be an excellent target for Detroit. With 20.5 career sacks, 86 tackles, and two forced fumbles, he has proven to be a disruptive presence when utilized effectively. At 26, he could thrive in Detroit’s system and provide the team with added flexibility heading into the draft.
Uche and the Lions Are a Natural Free-Agent Match
Detroit has boasted one of the league’s top run defenses over the past two seasons, and maintaining that dominance will be a focus. However, generating consistent pressure in the pocket has remained a challenge, particularly given the team’s depth struggles on the edge in recent years.
General manager Brad Holmes acknowledged the difficulties the Lions faced with injuries this season.
“This was the first year (dealing with attrition), especially attrition at one spot. (At) linebacker, we got hit in training camp and then it trickled into the season. It’s the first time we’ve had to trade for a pass rusher (in season) this year. I will say that was the most difficult player acquisition journey that I’ve ever dealt with.”
Adding an explosive pass rusher like Uche in 2025 could help prevent a similar situation from unfolding. The Lions could utilize Uche as a situational pass rusher alongside Hutchinson, his former Michigan teammate. That familiarity could help Uche maximize his potential, making Detroit an ideal landing spot for him this offseason.
