The Detroit Lions continue to show confidence in Aidan Hutchinson, insisting he remains one of the NFL’s elite defensive ends, despite recent criticisms over his sack production.
In recent weeks, the Lions’ defensive line has faced scrutiny due to a drop in overall sacks, leading to comparisons between Hutchinson and other top NFL edge rushers. Currently, Myles Garrett leads the league with 19 sacks, followed by Brian Burns with 13, and Micah Parsons, who recently joined the Packers, with 12.5. Hutchinson, Detroit’s former No. 2 overall pick, has recorded 8.5 sacks this season.
Critics argue Hutchinson struggles to beat double teams and goes long stretches without recording sacks—challenges also faced by other elite pass rushers in the league.
However, Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard defended Hutchinson, emphasizing that he is a key player who draws heavy attention from opposing offenses.
“People are going to plan for him,” Sheppard said. “That’s why he is one of the best, and he has to combat that. But it isn’t a one-man show.”
The Lions’ defensive line also includes Alim McNeill, Marcus Davenport, D.J. Reader, and Tyleik Williams, with Roy Lopez emerging as a solid rotational player. Sheppard stressed that the defensive line must work as a unit, winning one-on-one matchups rather than relying solely on Hutchinson to generate sacks.
“When your name is called, if you draw a one-on-one, you have to win in this league,” Sheppard added. “It’s just simple as that.”
Despite the criticism, the Lions’ coaching staff remains confident that Aidan Hutchinson is among the best NFL defensive ends, capable of impacting games even when opponents focus their schemes on limiting his pass-rushing opportunities.
