The Detroit Lions returned to the field for Friday’s OTA session in Allen Park, and all eyes were on No. 97. For the first time since breaking his leg last season, Aidan Hutchinson was back in action — and he didn’t disappoint.
Hutchinson was everywhere during the roughly two-hour session. He went full-speed through individual, team, and positional drills, showing off his trademark power and agility. He even tested a few pass-rush moves on tackles Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell. And the best news? He looked completely healthy. If it weren’t for the black sleeve on his leg, you’d never guess he was coming off a major injury.
“He’s moving well. You don’t see him favoring anything,” Dan Campbell said. “He looks confident — and that’s without pads.” Campbell also mentioned how encouraged he’s been by Marcus Davenport and the rest of the pass rushers in that room.
Hutchinson himself is itching for Week 1 in Green Bay, but he also understands the value of these slower-paced offseason sessions. “There’s a beauty in the process,” he said. “You figure out certain pass-rush moves or a step — it brings a different kind of joy compared to winning games.”
Injury Updates and Missing Faces
The Lions were cautious with their roster on Friday, keeping over 20 players limited or sidelined. That included familiar names like Amon-Ra St. Brown, David Montgomery, Jack Campbell, and Brian Branch, along with several rookies like Tyleik Williams and Isaac TeSlaa. Campbell made it clear most absences were precautionary, and the team is just focused on making sure players are ready for training camp.
Jack Campbell, for instance, had a minor hip procedure in the offseason and said there’s no reason for concern.
Chemistry Alert: Goff & Patrick Look Sharp
One of the few football takeaways? Jared Goff and veteran receiver Tim Patrick seem to be building something real. Goff hit Patrick on a crisp 20-yard post early in team drills, then came back to him again during 7-on-7s. With St. Brown and TeSlaa out, Patrick made the most of his opportunity — and Goff looked as calm and controlled as ever.
O-Line Mix and Match
With Frank Ragnow absent, the Lions shuffled players at center, giving rookie Tate Ratledge first-team reps alongside veterans like Graham Glasgow and Colby Sorsdal. The team continues to cross-train linemen — a hallmark of the Campbell era.
Other Quick Hits from OTAs:
Marcus Davenport batted down a pass during team drills and looked active throughout. He’s healthy and aiming to put his injury history behind him.
Avonte Maddox worked primarily at safety alongside Kerby Joseph with Branch out. The Lions may use Maddox in a hybrid DB role, replacing Ifeatu Melifonwu’s versatility.
Rookie Christian Mahogany saw time at guard with the first-team line — keep an eye on him as a possible summer riser.
The Lions have one more open OTA session before breaking, but if Hutchinson’s return is any indication, the team is in a good place heading into the summer.
Aidan Hutchinson Returns to OTAs Looking Like a Beast Again
