Emergence of surprise defensive stud likely helped Lions avoid a costly trade

The Detroit Lions came into the 2025 season with questions about who would pressure the quarterback in addition to Aidan Hutchinson, and so far, they've been pleasantly surprised by the answer. Linebackers Jack Campbell and Derrick Barnes have impressively contributed eight total sacks to the cause, but the bus has mostly been driven by a resurgent Al-Quadin Muhammad. With six sacks and solid pressure metrics, the relatively unknown pass rusher has leaped onto the scene. Pro Football Focus and writer Bradley Locker recently looked at naming some of the biggest surprises for every team this season. For the Lions, Muhammad was the choice given what he has done off the edge this season. "The Lions have long pursued a running mate to Aidan Hutchinson at edge rusher, and they may have found a surreptitious candidate in Muhammad. The 30-year-old has produced a 76.0 PFF pass-rushing grade with 31 pressures and a 17.8% pass-rush win rate this season." The numbers have been impressive as well as the eye test. Muhamma