The Detroit Lions’ pass rush next to Aidan Hutchinson is a big concern
A lot of things went wrong for the Detroit Lions on both sides of the ball in their season-opening 27-13 road loss to the Green Bay Packers, but their lack of a pass rush was among the most glaring issues.
Packers quarterback Jordan Love was kept clean essentially all afternoon. Detroit only recorded six pressures, tied for the second-fewest of any NFL team in Week 1. They were one of just three teams in the NFL to not record a sack in the season opener, along with Philadelphia Eagles and Carolina Panthers.
Three of those pressures came from Aidan Hutchinson, who was playing in his first game since the devastating leg injury he suffered against the Dallas Cowboys in October of 2024. The rest of Detroit’s three starters on the line - Marcus Davenport, DJ Reader and Tyleik Williams - each recorded just one apiece.
It was a pretty uninspired first game from a group that’s supposed to feature a Defensive Player of the Year contender as its headliner. The Lions did well against the run, allowing just 78 rushing yards on 25 attempts, but Green Bay burned them repeatedly with a highly efficient passing attack.
Love’s 188 passing yards might not scream “monster game”, but he looked very comfortable throughout the game and never particularly bothered by the rush.
Pass rush should be major concern ahead of Week 2 vs. Chicago Bears
That’s not what anyone thought they’d see out of this defense after training camp, where Hutchinson was reportedly so dominant that a “Hutch rule” was implemented to allow the offense to continue practicing even after he had beaten his man.
After watching Detroit’s offensive line on Sunday, it’s worth wondering if maybe that rule said more about them than Hutchinson and the rest of the pass rushers.
Sure, Hutchinson was being double-teamed all afternoon and didn’t have much of a chance to get to Love all on his own. But that’s where Detroit’s other pass rushers are supposed to benefit from the extra attention going towards Hutchinson.
“We’ve got some guys that have to win their one-on-ones,” head coach Dan Campbell said on Monday. “They’ve got to step up and make their plays when they’re there. We’ll keep repping it. We’ll keep working it. We’ll keep tweaking with guys, too, and trying to find guys that we can put in one-on-ones and have a chance to win.”
Instead, Detroit’s other starters could only muster one pressure each. It was just one game, but there’s already plenty of reason to raise an eyebrow at Detroit’s relative refusal to address the edge position this offseason.
The Lions drafted just one edge rusher, Ahmed Hassanein, in the sixth round. He was then waived/injured him before the season. They couldn’t agree to a deal with Za’Darius Smith, who signed with Philly just before week 1. Everything was seemingly banking on Hutchinson returning to top form, along with getting a full season out of the often-injured Davenport.
Hutchinson’s production is a pretty safe bet to pick up eventually, but his ceiling for sacks could be severely limited if teams realize they can double-team him without needing to worry too much about a threat coming from elsewhere.
Defensive tackle Alim McNeill is expected to return sometime in November, which will definitely add a big boost in the middle, but edge rusher is looking like a much greater concern anyway.
The Lions could have a big problem with their depth on the end, especially if an injury comes up. And there might not be a Za’Darius Smith-type of edge rusher available at the trade deadline this time, like there was last season.
There’s a whole lot of season left to play, and this is undoubtedly a talented front four on paper, but poor play on both lines of scrimmage has already cost Detroit one division game. If the trend continues against the Chicago Bears in Week 2’s home opener, the Lions might have a very serious problem on their hands.
BREAKING NEWS: Jarren Duran Asks Boston Red Sox and All MLB Teams to Observe a Minute of Silence in Tribute to Charlie Kirk
Jarren Duran Leads Call for Tribute to Charlie Kirk Across MLB
In a surprising and emotional statement, Boston Red Sox slugger Jarren Duran has asked his team and every Major League Baseball franchise to observe a minute of silence before each game. His call is to honor Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, who was tragically assassinated during a college event in Utah. Duran’s statement immediately spread across the sports world and beyond, sparking debates, drawing widespread support, and even inspiring what many describe as a patriotic movement across the American community.
Jarren Duran: A Star With a Powerful Voice
Jarren Duran is best known for his speed, powerful swing, and his role in leading the Red Sox to postseason success. But with his latest statement, Duran has demonstrated that he is not just an athlete defined by numbers on the field. By stepping into a national conversation and asking MLB to pay tribute, Duran has revealed a new dimension of his leadership. Fans and analysts alike see his decision as evidence that professional athletes can use their platforms to inspire unity in moments of tragedy.
The Assassination of Charlie Kirk
Charlie Kirk, a highly influential political activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was assassinated during a speaking event at a Utah college. His death shocked communities across the country and reignited conversations about free expression, public safety, and America’s cultural divisions. For many, Kirk represented youthful energy and a vision for civic engagement. His sudden and violent death left supporters stunned. It was in this context that Jarren Duran stepped forward to urge the sports world to unite in tribute.
Duran’s Statement That Sparked a Movement
Following the news of Kirk’s assassination, Duran delivered a public statement that has since gone viral:
“Charlie Kirk believed in America and the values that bring us together. I ask the Boston Red Sox, and I ask every MLB team, to honor him with one minute of silence before each game. This is about respect and unity, and I believe it is something the entire country can share.”
The clarity and sincerity of Duran’s words quickly resonated. Within hours, his statement was being quoted on sports channels, political talk shows, and social media platforms.
A Patriotic Wave Across Baseball
Almost immediately, Duran’s appeal began to gain traction among fans. At Red Sox practices, supporters arrived with American flags and banners reading “One Minute for America.” Online, the phrase spread as a hashtag, fueling grassroots campaigns calling on MLB to adopt the tribute.
The idea transcended team rivalries. Fans of other franchises, from the Yankees to the Dodgers, voiced support for Duran’s proposal. Some even began organizing local watch parties and pre-game ceremonies that included their own moments of silence.
The MLB Response
Major League Baseball has historically been cautious about political and cultural issues. Yet Duran’s request has put the league at a crossroads. Reports suggest that MLB executives are considering a flexible approach that would allow teams to decide individually whether to participate. Some clubs have already hinted at openness to the idea, while others remain more cautious about linking the league to a specific political figure.
No official decision has been announced, but the sheer level of public engagement ensures MLB cannot easily ignore the movement Duran helped spark.
Reactions From Players and Coaches
Inside the Red Sox clubhouse, Duran’s teammates reportedly supported his leadership. Several players from other franchises echoed his words, saying the tribute was not about politics but about respect for American values.
One veteran coach commented, “Baseball has always been more than a game. From Jackie Robinson to post-9/11 tributes, this sport reflects America. What Duran is asking for is part of that tradition.”
Still, some players voiced concerns. A few worried that tying the sport to a political figure could alienate segments of the fan base. The divide reflects the challenge MLB faces as it navigates this sensitive moment.
Fans Drive the Movement
If there is one group that has made Duran’s statement even more powerful, it is the fans. Supporters have taken to social media, sharing images of flags, signs, and gatherings that honor Kirk and support Duran’s call.
At local ballparks across the country, small groups of fans have already begun organizing voluntary minutes of silence before amateur and minor league games. These grassroots actions show how deeply Duran’s words resonated outside of MLB stadiums.
Baseball as a Reflection of National Identity
For over a century, baseball has been called America’s pastime. From the integration of Jackie Robinson to the healing role of the game after national tragedies, MLB has often reflected the country’s cultural struggles and triumphs. By asking for a tribute to Charlie Kirk, Jarren Duran has placed himself within that tradition. His call for unity highlights how sports can become stages for broader civic reflection.
Could This Tribute Become a Lasting Tradition?
One question that now looms is whether Duran’s appeal will become a lasting part of Major League Baseball. If several teams adopt the one-minute silence and fans continue to push for it, the league may find itself moving toward a permanent tradition.
Such a tribute would remind fans and players alike that baseball is not only about winning games but also about community, respect, and national values.
Looking Ahead
As the MLB season progresses, attention will remain on how the league and individual teams respond. The Red Sox may take the lead by adopting Duran’s request, setting an example for others. Regardless of whether the tribute becomes a league-wide mandate, Duran’s words have already left an impact. They have sparked a conversation about patriotism, unity, and the role of athletes in American culture.
Conclusion
Jarren Duran’s request for MLB teams to observe a minute of silence for Charlie Kirk has transcended sports. His statement, delivered in the wake of a national tragedy, has inspired a patriotic movement, stirred debate, and reminded fans that baseball is deeply intertwined with American life.
Whether Major League Baseball adopts the tribute across all franchises or leaves it to individual teams, Duran’s leadership has already made a lasting mark. He has reminded Americans that even in moments of division, sports can serve as a unifying force.
By calling for a minute of silence, Duran has given fans across the country an opportunity to pause, reflect, and remember that what unites Americans is greater than what divides them.
