By Sunday 
Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson just can’t seem to stay out of the spotlight — or out of the NFL’s penalty talk. But this time, it’s not about what he did get. It’s about what he didn’t.
Despite drawing a 15-yard flag for a trip on Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy during last week’s nail-biter loss, the NFL decided not to fine Hutchinson. Yep, you read that right — the league that’s been handing out fines like Halloween candy just let him off the hook.
Fans were bracing for the worst after seeing the replay: Hutchinson stretching that long leg to bring down McCarthy, getting the sack but also the yellow flag. Normally, that kind of play earns a nice fat bill in the mail. Not this time.
Even more wild? It’s not the first time he’s escaped. Earlier this season, Hutchinson got flagged for a late hit on Patrick Mahomes when the Lions faced the Chiefs — another moment that looked like fine material. Still, the league shrugged it off. Maybe the NFL’s got a soft spot for Michigan men?
Of course, Hutchinson isn’t completely fine-free in his career. Back in 2023, he was docked $11,473 for a hit against the Panthers. But lately, it seems the defensive star is catching some rare luck from the league office.
Meanwhile, the Lions are licking their wounds from that loss to Minnesota. The defeat cost them a shot at topping the NFC North, leaving them a half-game behind the Packers. But head coach Dan Campbell isn’t sweating it. In classic Campbell fashion, he told reporters he actually likes being underestimated again:
“It’s good to be a little bit of an afterthought,” Campbell said. “We’ll go about our business over in the corner and come out humming.”
Translation: don’t panic, Detroit’s cooking something.
The Lions now turn their attention to a Washington Commanders team missing their starting quarterback Jayden Daniels, who’s sidelined with a dislocated elbow. On paper, it’s a perfect chance for Detroit to bounce back — and maybe for Hutchinson to channel that fiery energy into clean, flag-free sacks.
For now, the NFL’s decision is clear: no fine, no punishment. And for Hutchinson and the Lions, that’s one less distraction as they gear up for redemption.