The Detroit Lions delivered another strong performance last season, following their impressive run to the NFC Championship Game the year prior. However, the season wasn’t without its setbacks. The team suffered a major blow when they lost their defensive superstar, former Michigan Wolverine Aidan Hutchinson, to a significant injury.
Hutchinson is a dominant force on the field and a nightmare matchup for offensive linemen. Unfortunately, his season was cut short after he broke his tibia and fibula in his left leg during a game against the Dallas Cowboys. At the time of the injury, the Detroit phenom was already more than halfway to matching his sack total from the previous season.
The Lions are aiming to pair Hutchinson with another elite edge rusher to create one of the most feared defensive duos in the NFL. A few weeks ago, Hutchinson was asked about his recovery, and he sounded optimistic.
“I’m there. I’d say I’m good,” Hutchinson told Marty Smith. “I’ve got my last evaluation tests when I get back, I leave today and I go back tomorrow to the rehab. I’m gonna finish those evals and once I knock them out of the park, I’ll be on my way and done with rehab. It was a long process, I’ll tell you that.”
Detroit is looking to extend Hutchinson’s contract for obvious reasons, but GM Brad Holmes has remained tight-lipped about the current status of negotiations. Recently, footage surfaced of Hutchinson working out as he continues to recover and regain full strength in his leg.
“Many fans are worried that Lions star DE Aidan Hutchinson won’t be back for the start of the NFL season as he still seems to struggle on his previously injured leg,” Dov Kleiman wrote.
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The plan is still for Hutchinson to be ready by Week 1, though Kleiman doubts that timeline will hold. It’s possible Hutchinson’s continued struggles are more mental than physical as he works to regain full confidence in his leg.
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