The Detroit Lions might be getting one of their biggest difference-makers back right on time.
Star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, who suffered a nasty fractured tibia and fibula in Week 6 of last season, has officially returned to the practice field—and according to the coaching staff, he’s looking like his old self already.
“He looks really good,” said D-line coach Kacy Rodgers. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard added even more hype: “I told him, ‘Hutch, you know how I know you’re back? Because you’re touching the ground running that hoop.’” Translation: Hutchinson is moving like the freak athlete Detroit fans fell in love with.
Before the injury, Hutchinson was on a tear. In just 4.5 games, he racked up 7.5 sacks and 45 pressures, showing why he was the No. 2 overall pick in 2022. But what’s really setting him apart isn’t just his production—it’s the way he carries himself like a guy still trying to earn a roster spot.
“He works like he’s brand new in the league,” Sheppard said. “He wants to be pushed, coached hard, and never acts like he’s already made it.”
That mindset—and his elite talent—are huge for a Lions team with championship aspirations. After falling short in the NFC semifinals against Washington, Detroit heads into 2025 hungry for more, and getting Hutchinson back could be the piece that puts them over the top.
If this version of Hutch sticks, offenses around the NFL better get ready.
Massive Boost: Hutchinson Looks Ready to Roll After Gruesome Injury
