Melissa Hutchinson Reacts to Pope Leo XIV’s Surprising Michigan Connection
Melissa Hutchinson, the sister of Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, was among the many Americans who were caught off guard by the revelation that the newly elected pope has ties to Michigan. Last Thursday, Robert Francis Prevost was officially named the new leader of the Catholic Church, taking on the papal title Leo XIV following the death of Pope Francis. He has made history as the first American pope, with his roots stretching from New Orleans to his upbringing in Chicago.
The news ignited a storm of online activity, with social media platforms brimming with tributes and humorous memes. One meme in particular, which showed Pope Leo XIV sporting a Detroit Lions cap, prompted Melissa Hutchinson to share her reaction on Instagram.
“An American pope from Chicago with Michigan roots rocking a Lions hat in a meme… definitely didn’t see that one coming. But I’m loving it,” Melissa wrote alongside the post.
Aidan Hutchinson Prepares for the Upcoming NFL Season
As Melissa embraced the viral moment, her brother Aidan Hutchinson continues to focus on the upcoming NFL season with the Detroit Lions. Drafted second overall in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Hutchinson has become a standout on the team’s defense.
Despite boasting rising stars like Hutchinson, the Lions had a mixed performance last season. They topped the NFC North with an impressive 15-2 record but were knocked out in the divisional round after a 45-31 loss to the Washington Commanders.
Lions GM Brad Holmes Speaks at Commencement Ceremony
In other Lions-related news, Detroit’s general manager Brad Holmes recently returned to his alma mater, North Carolina A&T State University, to give the keynote speech at the school’s graduation ceremony. Drawing inspiration from the motivational piece “Choose Your Hard,” Holmes spoke about the inevitable challenges of life and urged graduates to face adversity head-on.
Holmes, who has served as the Lions’ GM and Executive VP since 2021, previously worked as the Director of College Scouting for the Los Angeles Rams from 2013 to 2020. He began his football career as a scout with the then-St. Louis Rams after completing his high school education at George D. Chamberlain and earning a college degree from NC A&T.
