Could Bralen Trice be the future EDGE player for the Lions?
The Detroit Lions boast an exceptional pass rusher in Aidan Hutchinson, capable of disrupting opponents’ game plans. Despite leading the league in pressures during the 2023 season, Hutchinson’s sack tally reached 11.5, leaving room for improvement in the Lions’ pass-rushing capabilities.
To bolster their defensive front in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, the Lions may consider adding more firepower. One promising candidate is Bralen Trice from Washington, who could form a potent combination with Hutchinson.
Trice showcased his prowess with 80 pressures, including seven sacks, during the season, contributing significantly to the Huskies’ run to the College Football Playoff Championship game. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 260 pounds, Trice possesses the strength to overpower opponents and employs effective hand techniques to defeat offensive linemen.
Over three active seasons, Trice accumulated 18 sacks and 28.5 tackles for loss. Notably, his standout performance against Stanford in 2023 included 14 pressures, 1.5 credited sacks, and an overall dominant display. In the College Football Playoff Semifinal against Texas, he notched seven pressures, three tackles for loss, and two sacks, showcasing his versatility and a strong repertoire of moves.
Trice, considered a fringe first-round prospect, has been linked to the Lions in mock drafts, potentially fitting well with their first pick at No. 29. However, there are areas for improvement, such as determining whether he will line up as a stand-up edge or an inline defensive lineman in the NFL. While strong and physical, Trice may struggle against mobile quarterbacks or speedy running backs on the edge.
Though he excels as a pass-rusher, Trice’s run game contribution is decent but not as strong. His versatility is evolving, with occasional challenges in setting a robust edge as a walked-up outside linebacker.
Despite areas for growth, Trice, a Washington product, possesses a solid foundation for a successful professional career. His qualities as a pass-rusher, combined with high effort and motor, align with the characteristics valued by the Lions’ leadership since 2021. As a result, he could become the Lions’ first draft addition in the upcoming season.
