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The Lions face a critical edge rusher battle between rookie Derrick Moore and veteran D.J. Wonnum. This competition is vital for establishing a strong pass-rush alongside Aidan Hutchinson.
(Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK)
There are going to be several intriguing camp battles for the Lions this summer, but few carry as much long-term importance as the edge rusher spot opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Detroit has made it clear theyâre not just looking for depthâtheyâre searching for a true difference-maker who can consistently win one-on-one matchups and prevent offenses from keying entirely on Hutchinson. Thatâs what makes the battle between rookie Derrick Moore and veteran D.J. Wonnum so compelling. Itâs not just about who starts in Week 1âitâs about whether the Lions have finally found a legitimate second pass-rush threat or if theyâll once again be piecing it together with rotational production.
Derrick Moore: The upside swing Detroit needs
Moore brings exactly the kind of profile Detroit has been missing. His 2025 production and efficiency suggest a player who isnât just productiveâbut disruptive on a per-snap basis. With 11 sacks, 41 total pressures, and an elite 92.4 pass-rush grade, he was one of the most effective edge defenders in college football despite playing just 440 snaps.
What stands out most is how translatable his game is. At 6â4â with long arms and a strong frame, Moore fits the physical mold Detroit prioritizes. He can set the edge in the run game while still offering legitimate juice as a pass rusherâsomething this defense has lacked outside of Hutchinson.
Thereâs also the mentality piece. Moore was a team captain and one of the most relentless defenders on his unit. That aligns closely with the identity Detroit has built under Kelvin Sheppardâphysical, aggressive, and effort-driven.
The key factor: he doesnât need high volume to produce. His pressure rate and efficiency suggest that if his snap count increases, the production could scale with it.
D.J. Wonnum: Stability and experience
Wonnum represents the opposite end of the spectrum. Heâs a known quantityâa six-year veteran who has started 54 games and consistently stayed available. After dealing with injuries along the defensive line the past two seasons, that reliability alone has value.
Heâs also scheme-versatile. Having played in both 4-3 and 3-4 looks, Wonnum can line up with his hand in the dirt or stand up, which gives Detroit flexibility depending on the front they want to show.
But when you dig into the numbers, the limitations become clear. Over the past two seasons, his pass-rush production has been below average compared to starting-caliber edge rushers. His 2025 PFF grades (49.9 pass rush, 54.7 overall) reflect a player who isnât consistently winning his matchups.
Derrick Moore recorded 11 sacks, 41 total pressures, and an elite 92.4 pass-rush grade in the 2025 season.
The edge rusher position is crucial for the Lions to create a strong pass-rush and prevent offenses from focusing solely on Aidan Hutchinson.
D.J. Wonnum is a veteran player, while Derrick Moore is a rookie with impressive college stats, making their competition significant for the Lions' future.
The outcome of the edge rusher battle could determine if the Lions have a legitimate second pass-rush threat or rely on rotational production again.

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That doesnât make him uselessâit just defines his role. Heâs more of a steady, assignment-sound defender than a player offenses have to game plan around.
Fit within Detroitâs defense
The Lions donât just need someone to âhold downâ the opposite edgeâthey need someone who can change the math for opposing offenses. Hutchinson already commands attention. Without a legitimate threat across from him, offenses can slide protection, chip, and neutralize Detroitâs biggest weapon.
* Wonnum helps keep things functional
* Moore has the potential to tilt the field
That distinction matters.
Whoâs the better fit?
Early in the season: Wonnum likely gets the nod
* More experience
* More reliable in assignments
* Lower risk while Moore adjusts
As the season progresses: Moore should take over
* Higher ceiling
* More explosive pass-rush ability
* Better fit for what Detroit ultimately needs
If Moore develops the way his college production suggests, it wonât take long for the coaching staff to justify increasing his role.
Final takeaway
D.J. Wonnum gives Detroit a safety net.
Derrick Moore gives them a potential solution.
And if the Lions are serious about elevating their defense from solid to dangerous, Moore is the player who can make that leap happen.