Aidan Hutchinson Issues a Warning to the NFC North and the Entire NFL
Aidan Hutchinson, the Detroit Lions’ standout defensive end, is steadily recovering from a serious leg injury, and as his health improves, NFL offensive tackles are no doubt feeling the pressure.
The 2024 season had the potential to be a career-defining one for Hutchinson, who was on an incredible sack pace before suffering a broken fibula and tibia during Week 5 against the Dallas Cowboys. At that point, Hutchinson had already accumulated 7.5 sacks and was on track to shatter the NFL’s single-season sack record. Had he maintained that pace, he would’ve been a strong contender for Defensive Player of the Year. In fact, back in February, Hutchinson was named an early favorite for both the Defensive Player of the Year and Comeback Player of the Year awards in 2025. While it’s never been done before, there’s a strong belief that a fully healthy Hutchinson could pull off the rare feat.
Now, nearly seven months post-injury, Hutchinson continues to show positive signs of recovery. Recent updates highlight his progress, including a recent video showing him running at the Lions’ indoor practice facility. While not at full speed, Hutchinson demonstrated impressive agility, smoothly changing directions while sprinting—a key milestone in his rehabilitation.
Hutchinson Delivers a Message to the NFC North with New Training Video
On Thursday, Jim Kielbaso, a renowned strength and speed coach, shared a video on Instagram showing Hutchinson in action, accompanied by the caption “Out the cage. Let the hunt resume.” This post came just over a week after the Lions began their offseason workouts, though it’s unclear whether Hutchinson has been involved in the team’s activities thus far. The next phase of the offseason, which includes non-contact drills like 7-on-7 and 9-on-9, will offer more clarity on his recovery as it takes place between May 28-30 and June 3-5.
The Lions, who are set to play in the Hall of Fame Game this year, have adjusted their offseason schedule, canceling their mandatory minicamp. Hutchinson’s participation in these activities may be influenced by his ongoing contract negotiations. He is due for a significant contract extension, though his situation is complicated by the contracts of other top edge rushers like Micah Parsons and T.J. Watt. Detroit GM Brad Holmes recently commented that while these deals may have an impact, the Lions are sticking to their own process and strategy for Hutchinson’s situation.
In any case, if Hutchinson stays healthy, he is sure to be a nightmare for opposing offenses this upcoming season.
