In 2019, the Detroit Lions defense was abysmal, and one of GM Bob Quinn‘s biggest charges this offseason was to solidify that weakness before the 2020 season.
Some believe Quinn has done a good job overhauling the defense in the offseason, and he certainly did make some moves that should improve which was one of the worst units in franchise history, but did he do enough?
In my opinion, Quinn has not done enough to improve the defense, especially when it comes to improving the pass rush.
Now, to be fair to Quinn, coaching certainly played a HUGE role in the defense not getting to opposing quarterbacks in 2019, and blitzing more this coming season would help the cause, but Quinn adding a stud pass rusher could be the key.
One player who looks to be available is Jacksonville Jaguars DE, Yannick Ngakoue, who seemingly wants off of his current team as soon as possible.
In order for the Lions to acquire Ngakoue, Quinn would have to put together a trade that the Jags would accept.
The question is, would the Lions be a fit for the defensive end?
Well, according to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, the Lions would be one of the best fits for Ngakoue.
General manager Bob Quinn and coach Matt Patricia are dealing with major win-now pressure in an unpredictable year and a tough division. Adding Ngakoue to the pass rush would be the capper on an offseason that saw significant a overhaul on a defense that is dealing with some questions on the back end.
During his first four years in the league, Ngakoue has 37.5 sacks in 62 games and at just 25 years old, his best years could still be ahead of him.
Should the Lions try to trade for Ngakoue, even though he would count as $17.788 against the cap?
In my opinion, Quinn should absolutely call up the Jaguars and see what it would take to bring in Yannick as he would upgrade the Lions pass rush immediately.
I truly believe that if the Lions can have a top 15-18 defense in the league, combined with an offense I think will be top 5-7, they could win the NFC North and host a home playoff game.
