Experts Recommend Lions Trade for Proven Pass Rusher, Former Draft Pick
The Detroit Lions are living up to lofty expectations through six games, as the team is 5-1 and are coming off a gutsy 31-29 road victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 7. The Lions are now in full control of first place in the NFC North and look like premier Super Bowl contenders.
Though Detroit has one of the deepest rosters in the NFL, Dan Campbell’s unit still has some flaws, especially the pass-rushing unit. Season-ending injuries to Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport have decimated the group, and the Lions will have to find efficient ways to pressure the quarterback if the team wants to make a deep playoff run.
Young has had a disappointing career thus far, as the 2020 No.2 overall pick has been riddled with injuries and has just 18 sacks since entering the league. The former Ohio State standout is now on his third team and has never posted double-digit sacks in a single season.
Though Young isn’t an elite pass rusher and has some weaknesses in his game, taking a flyer on the 25-year-old would be a savvy move from general manager Brad Holmes.
Young has tallied two sacks and 27 quarterback pressures in 223 pass-rush snaps this season and is quietly having a decent campaign. The former Commander will never live up to his pre-draft hype, but the Lions desperately need help at edge rusher, and Young could provide adequate play.
Acquiring the former unanimous All-American shouldn’t be problematic, as a Day 3 pick should be enough to bring Young to the Motor City. Additionally, the veteran is on a one-year deal worth $13 million, so there isn’t much financial risk involved in a potential trade.
There are better options on the market, but trading for Chase Young would be a low-risk, high-reward move for Detroit.
