Five EDGE Rushers the Detroit Lions Could Sign Before Training Camp.

The Detroit Lions have made significant strides in recent years, aiming to become competitive in the NFC North. Their defense, however, has often been an area of concern.

Despite improvements, the Lions still need to bolster their pass rush to complement a dynamic offense led by Jared Goff and an emerging set of playmakers.

To solidify their defense before training camp begins, the Lions should consider signing EDGE rushers who can generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

With the 2025 season fast approaching, here are five EDGE rushers the Detroit Lions could sign before training camp to enhance their pass-rushing efforts.

1. Frank Clark (Formerly of the Kansas City Chiefs)

Frank Clark is a proven veteran with a track record of big-time performances in the postseason.

After spending several years with the Kansas City Chiefs, including winning two Super Bowls, Clark is now a free agent.

Though his best days might be behind him, he still offers experience and a solid pass-rushing ability.

In 2023, Clark recorded 5 sacks and 15 QB hits.

While these numbers are not eye-popping, his ability to perform in clutch situations, particularly in the postseason, should not be underestimated.

The Lions could use his leadership and veteran presence on a young defense, providing mentorship for emerging players like Aidan Hutchinson.

Signing Clark would add depth to the defensive line, and his playoff experience could be a valuable asset as Detroit continues to develop its team for long-term success.

2. Yannick Ngakoue (Free Agent)

Yannick Ngakoue has been one of the more consistent EDGE rushers in the NFL over the past few seasons.

Over his career, he has accumulated 65 sacks and 160 QB hits across stints with several teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars, Minnesota Vikings, and Indianapolis Colts.

His ability to generate consistent pressure off the edge would be a perfect fit for a Lions defense looking for more explosive plays from their pass rush.

Ngakoue is known for his speed and ability to close on quarterbacks, registering double-digit sack seasons earlier in his career.

Although his production has fluctuated in recent years, his pass-rushing skills remain impressive.

With Detroit’s need for an immediate impact player, Ngakoue could provide that spark.

If the Lions sign him, it would give them a proven commodity on the edge to pair with their promising young talent, especially Hutchinson.

3. Melvin Ingram (Free Agent)

Melvin Ingram has been a reliable presence as an EDGE rusher throughout his career.

After spending nine years with the Chargers, Ingram had stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Miami Dolphins.

Though his sack numbers have declined recently, Ingram is still capable of impacting games with his ability to set the edge, rush the passer, and be a versatile piece on defense.

In 2023, Ingram posted 5 sacks and 12 QB hits, which, while not elite, still show that he can contribute at a decent level.

Ingram is also a leader on the field and in the locker room, making him a great fit for a young Lions defense that needs veteran leadership.

Signing Ingram would be a low-risk, potentially high-reward move that could provide some stability and mentoring for the younger players on the defensive front.

4. Robert Quinn (Free Agent)

At 34 years old, Robert Quinn is another veteran edge rusher who could provide the Lions with an experienced and serviceable pass rusher.

Quinn had a dominant 2021 season with the Chicago Bears, where he recorded 18.5 sacks.

However, his production dropped significantly in 2022 and 2023, leading to questions about whether he can still perform at a high level.

Despite this, Quinn’s track record speaks for itself—he has 104 career sacks, and his ability to take over games in the past remains a promising sign.

If Quinn is signed to a one-year deal, he could serve as a situational pass rusher, especially in obvious passing downs.

His veteran savvy and extensive experience could also be beneficial for helping develop younger rushers like Hutchinson, who could learn from Quinn’s extensive career.

For the Lions, a signing like this would come with minimal risk and the potential for solid production in limited, specialized roles.

5. Marcus Davenport (New Orleans Saints)

Marcus Davenport’s name has been floated in trade rumors for years, and while the New Orleans Saints decided not to re-sign him after the 2024 season, the 27-year-old defensive end remains a tantalizing prospect.

Despite injuries derailing parts of his career, Davenport still possesses raw talent that can make him a game-changer if utilized correctly.

In 2023, Davenport played in only 11 games but still tallied 5 sacks.

He is a physical specimen, standing 6’6” and weighing 265 pounds, and he has the speed and power to wreak havoc on quarterbacks.

If Davenport can stay healthy, he has the potential to form a dynamic duo with Aidan Hutchinson on the defensive line.

Signing him would require a bit of a gamble, but the payoff could be substantial if Davenport reaches his potential.

The Detroit Lions’ defense is gradually improving, but they still need a boost in their pass rush to take the next step.

Adding any of the aforementioned EDGE rushers would provide the Lions with additional depth, veteran leadership, and a greater ability to disrupt opposing offenses.

Whether it’s Frank Clark’s championship pedigree, Yannick Ngakoue’s consistent sack production, Melvin Ingram’s versatility, Robert Quinn’s experience, or Marcus Davenport’s untapped potential, each of these players brings something unique to the table.

As the Lions head into training camp, these signings would help ensure their defense is ready to make an impact in the 2025 season.

With their offense already in place, bolstering the pass rush is one of the final steps needed to compete for the NFC North title and make a deep playoff run.