Detroit Lions’ Pass Rush Upgrade: Exploring the Potential Acquisition of Josh Allen

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ Josh Allen, an edge rusher, is one possible target that the Detroit Lions are eyeing in order to bolster their pass rush.

Even with Marcus Davenport joining them via free agency and Aidan Hutchinson already in the starting lineup, the Lions are still searching for ways to bolster their defense.

Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report has named Allen as a top contender for the Lions, pointing to his outstanding 2023 campaign.

Allen’s future in Jacksonville is still up in the air as contract negotiations drag on, even though the Jaguars have franchise-tagged him. In order to avoid losing him in free agency the following year, the Jaguars may decide to trade him if a long-term agreement isn’t struck by the middle of July.

With 17.5 sacks, 66 tackles, a pick, and two forced fumbles, Allen’s outstanding 2023 season demonstrated his ability as a pass rusher. His outstanding play secured him a spot in the Pro Bowl for the second time, establishing him as one of the best edge rushers in the league.

Detroit Lions’ Defensive Dream

The 26-year-old University of Kentucky product was selected seventh overall in the 2019 NFL Draft and has proven since joining the league that he can have an instant effect. 

Despite a setback with injuries in his second season, Allen has shown flashes of brilliance all season long, setting him up for a breakthrough year in 2023. 

The Detroit Lions would undoubtedly benefit from having such a dynamic player in their defensive lineup after Allen’s value shot through the roof following his stellar performance the previous season.

The potential of a trade is still on the table as talks between Allen and the Jaguars continue, offering an alluring chance for teams looking to improve their pass rush.

Pursuing Allen might provide the Lions the missing component they need to complement Hutchinson and improve their defense to unprecedented levels. All eyes will be on Jacksonville and Allen’s contract predicament as the offseason goes on, and the Lions will be ready to jump at the chance if it presents itself.