Aidan Hutchinson Injury Update Triggers Emotional Response from Lions Fans
It’s been more than six and a half months since Detroit Lions standout edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson suffered a devastating season-ending leg injury—fracturing both his fibula and tibia—during an October 13 matchup with the Dallas Cowboys.
Speaking at The Masters golf tournament last month, Hutchinson gave an encouraging update on his rehab progress.
“I’m basically there. I’d say I’m doing well,” Hutchinson said. “I’ve got one last round of evaluations when I get back. I’m heading out today and will return to rehab tomorrow. Once I complete those tests successfully, I’ll be finished with rehab. It’s been a tough road, no doubt.”
Despite Hutchinson’s optimism about being ready for the 2025 season opener, a recently surfaced video showing him participating in training drills has sparked concern among Detroit fans. In the footage, the 24-year-old appears to be struggling with mobility, particularly during sprinting exercises.
Fans on social media were quick to comment on the visible difference in muscle mass between his injured and healthy legs—an expected outcome after such a severe injury—but more worrisome for many was the apparent limp in his stride. This raised eyebrows especially since Lions head coach Dan Campbell previously hinted that Hutchinson might have returned had the team made it to the Super Bowl in February.
One concerned fan wrote, “I love a comeback story, but let’s be real—how can anyone expect him to be the same? That leg won’t be what it was.” Another commented, “He looks slower and lacks the burst that defines his game.” Others echoed similar sentiments: “He’s clearly favoring that leg,” “No confidence at all in his movement,” and “He doesn’t look like the same player.”
Some fans even went as far as suggesting his career might be in jeopardy: “He might play again, but that explosiveness is gone. His career could be over.”
Though he’s not yet fully recovered, Hutchinson still has around four months before the new season begins. Given the severity of his injury, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Lions take a cautious approach and ease him back into action—possibly keeping him out for the early part of the 2025 campaign.
Would you like a visual comparison of his pre-injury and current workout form?
