Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson will not face any additional discipline from the NFL after a controversial play in last week’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
On Saturday, the league released its list of fines from Week 9, and Hutchinson’s name was notably absent. Despite being penalized during the game for a tripping call, the NFL chose not to fine him — even though similar penalties against other players did result in financial punishment.
Hutchinson’s Flagged Play Against J.J. McCarthy
During the Lions’ 27–24 defeat to Minnesota, Hutchinson was flagged for a 15-yard personal foul after a hit on Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy. While chasing McCarthy, Hutchinson appeared to extend his leg in order to bring him down, drawing a tripping flag from officials. However, after reviewing the play, the league determined that it did not rise to the level of a fine.
This isn’t the first time Hutchinson has escaped monetary punishment after a penalty. Earlier this season, he was flagged for a late hit on Patrick Mahomes during Detroit’s matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs, but the league again declined to issue a fine. His most recent fine came back in 2023, when he was docked $11,473 for a hit on a Carolina Panthers player.
Detroit Looking to Regain Momentum
The loss to Minnesota prevented the Lions from moving atop the NFC North, leaving them half a game behind the Green Bay Packers. The setback also means Detroit has already matched its total number of defeats from last season.
Head coach Dan Campbell said he actually sees a benefit in the team’s slightly quieter position this year.
“It’s kind of nice being a bit under the radar again,” Campbell told reporters on Friday, according to the team’s official website. “There are some teams out there playing really good football, and we’re just over here trying to get right and hit our stride. I like that.”
Campbell added that the team was prepared for the heightened expectations that come with success.
“When you win 15 games and only drop two, people react differently when you lose,” he explained. “So I told the guys — if we lose a few more this year, don’t be surprised by the noise.”
Next Up: Commanders Shorthanded
Detroit now turns its attention to the Washington Commanders, who are dealing with significant injury issues. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels suffered a dislocated elbow in last week’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks and will be sidelined for this matchup. The Commanders opted against placing him on injured reserve, leaving open the possibility of a late-season return.
The Lions have also been hit hard by injuries, especially in the secondary. Cornerbacks Khalil Dorsey and D.J. Reed are both on injured reserve, and safety Kerby Joseph is out with a knee injury.
