Detroit Lions fans can finally exhale — it looks like Aidan Hutchinson is all the way back.
After missing most of last season with a fractured leg, Hutchinson is already making waves during offseason workouts. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, recently promoted after Aaron Glenn left for the Jets, gave a glowing update on the star pass rusher’s progress.
“I told him, ‘You know how I know you’re back? You’re hitting that ground when you run that hoop,’” Sheppard said, referring to a move Hutchinson uses to bend around offensive tackles. “That’s how I know you’re back, Big Dog.”
Defensive line coach Kacy Rodgers echoed the sentiment, saying Hutchinson “looks really good” and commended the work he’s put in to rehab after what could’ve been a season-ending injury.
Had the Lions made it to the Super Bowl, there was even talk Hutchinson could’ve returned then. But instead of rushing it, he focused on coming back stronger for 2025 — and it’s paying off.
Detroit definitely missed his presence last year. He racked up 7.5 sacks in just five games before going down, and while Za’Darius Smith helped fill the gap with 4.0 sacks, the pass rush clearly wasn’t the same. The Lions ended their playoff run with a tough loss to the Commanders, failing to record a single sack against rookie QB Jayden Daniels.
With Hutchinson healthy again — and potentially more help on the way — Detroit’s defense could return to being one of the NFL’s most dangerous in 2025.
Big Dog’ Is Back: Aidan Hutchinson Impresses New DC in Rehab Comeback
