Trade news: Lions finalizes deal to sign 22 year old Edge Rusher worth $148 million

Alot of mock draft experts have predicted the Detroit Lions to target an edge rusher in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft. But The Athletic’s Ben Standig projected the Lions to grab one of the top edge rushers in the class with Alabama’s Chris Braswell after not selecting in the first round at all.

In a mock draft released on March 25, Standig had the Lions trading back from No. 29 overall to No. 44. But even 15 selections later, Standig slotted Braswell to the Lions in the second round.

“Trading for Carlton Davis aided the cornerback room,” The Athletic senior NFL writer wrote. “Now comes a tag-team partner for Aidan Hutchinson.”

In Braswell, the Lions would be landing the No. 4 edge rushing prospect in the 2024 draft class according to for the Lions.

How Alabama’s Chris Braswell Could Fit With the Lions

The Lions weren’t a terrible pass rushing team in 2023. But that was in large part due to Hutchinson, who finished second in the NFL in pressures last season.

Hutchinson and defensive tackle Alim McNeill were the only Lions defenders with more than 3 sacks last season. Overall, Detroit was 23rd in sacks with 41.

Therefore, even after signing Marcus Davenport and D.J. Reader, the Lions are a fit for any of the top edge rushers in the 2024 draft class. ESPN and PFF not only have Braswell ranked as the No. 4 edge rusher in the 2024 draft, but a top 41 player overall. So, Braswell would offer the team some value if the Lions landed him at No. 44 in the second round.