Following Aidan Hutchinson’s injury in Week Six, the Detroit Lions were left with a void in their pass rushing department, prompting speculation about a potential trade to bolster their defense. Despite opting to stay put last week, head coach Dan Campbell’s recent comments have only fueled the trade rumors.
The Lions managed to sack Sam Darnold four times in their narrow 31-29 victory, but the quarterback still found success, completing 22 of 27 passes for 259 yards when not under pressure. Campbell acknowledged the team’s shortcomings in the pass rush department, admitting that there is room for improvement as they approach the halfway mark of the season.
In an interview with 97.1 The Ticket, Campbell highlighted the importance of generating more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. He emphasized the need for better execution on defense, stating, “There were some things where our coverage really had to — we asked them to do a lot, and they had to hold on a little bit. To answer your question, we need just a little bit more. There was a couple of [plays] that did get long, a couple of these plays that you like to believe we can get somebody there just a little bit sooner.”
While Campbell expressed confidence in defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn’s strategic abilities, he hinted at the possibility of seeking external assistance to improve the team’s pass rush. By adding a new dimension to their defense, the Lions could alleviate some of the pressure on their secondary and create more opportunities to disrupt opposing offenses.
As the Lions continue to search for solutions to enhance their defensive performance, Campbell remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. He believes that with the right adjustments and reinforcements, the Lions can overcome their current challenges and elevate their overall defensive play.
