By Blessing 
Aidan Hutchinson Making Strong Strides in Recovery from Broken Leg
Detroit Lions fans have reason to be optimistic. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson appears to be nearing full recovery after suffering a significant leg injury last season.
Link to the video 👇🏽
https://x.com/the_det_times/status/1891565876840747261
Hutchinson’s season came to a halt in Week 6 when he broke both his left fibula and tibia during a tough matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. Despite the severity of the injury, there was still a glimmer of hope that he might return if the Lions made a deep playoff run. At the time, reports floated the idea that he might be available for the Super Bowl—or even the NFC Championship Game—should Detroit make it that far.
Unfortunately, that speculation didn’t materialize, as the Lions’ postseason dreams ended in the Divisional Round with a loss to the Washington Commanders.
During Super Bowl week, Hutchinson appeared on The Pat McAfee Show in New Orleans. When asked if he would’ve suited up had the Lions reached the big game, he responded with a playful bit of mystery, saying, “The world will never know.” At that time, he also shared that he was close to finishing rehab.
Less than two weeks after that appearance, Hutchinson posted a video update showcasing his recovery progress. The footage showed him running, albeit with a stiff, straight-ahead gait that hinted he wasn’t back to 100% just yet. While some critics pounced on the video, expressing concern, it’s important to remember he was only about four months removed from a double leg break. The fact that he was even running was a positive sign—especially compared to earlier stages of his rehab.
Now, things are looking much more encouraging.
In a new video shared on Friday, Hutchinson showed off just how far he’s come. Filmed inside the Lions’ indoor practice facility, the clip captures him running faster, looking more fluid, and even changing direction—something he hadn’t been seen doing previously. Though he’s still sporting a sizable brace on his leg, there’s no mistaking the increased confidence in his movement.
This update comes just ahead of the Lions’ offseason program, which officially kicks off on April 22. The first voluntary OTA practice is set for May 28. It remains to be seen how much Hutchinson will participate early on, but he’s approaching the six-month mark in his 4-to-6-month recovery timeline—a window originally shared by head coach Dan Campbell.
While it’s wise to stay cautious and not expect a full return to form overnight, Hutchinson’s progress is clearly trending in the right direction. Trusting his leg and regaining agility are key milestones, and from what we’ve seen lately, he’s checking those boxes.
Detroit will certainly be watching closely, but for now, it’s safe to say Hutchinson is on the right track.