After a decisive 26-20 overtime victory against the Los Angeles Rams, Detroit Lions DE Aidan Hutchinson might be on his way to becoming one of the greatest defensive edge rushers of all time. Although the towering 6’7″ 268 pound Hutchinson grew up idolizing J.J. Watt, one day soon, he may surpass his hero.
Is Detroit’s Aidan Hutchinson the NFL’s Best EDGE Rusher?
In last week’s overtime win, Hutchinson delivered a punishing sack on Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford that sent the game into overtime. Stepping up when the Lions needed it most, Hutchinson’s regulation-ending sack was one of the keys to the Lions’ victory. It was the definitive play that put a rubber stamp on the Lions’ late-game comeback. But that wasn’t Hutchinson’s only contribution on Sunday night. Hutchinson tied for the league lead in week 1 with a career-high 11 pressures. His 47.8% pass-rush win rate was also the highest percentage of any player since 2021.
The Statistics Back Him Up
In only 35 career games, Hutchinson is well on his way to smashing most-standing NFL defensive records. The latest statistics reveal that Hutchinson now has more sacks than Lawrence Taylor, more quarterback hits than Aaron Donald, more pressures than Nick Bosa, more tackles than Michael Strahan, and more tackles for a loss than Julius Peppers.
In addition to more passes broken up than Myles Garret, the 2023 Defensive Player Of The Year, Hutchinson forced more fumbles than Reggie White. He also snatched more interceptions than T.J. Watt. Given all that he’s accomplished, it’s hard to believe this is only Hutchinson’s third season with the Lions. It’s even harder to imagine how much better his performance might become. But Hutchinson is focused on improving his game and acknowledges that there’s more work to be done.
A Standard of Excellence
Striving for excellence and breaking records is nothing new to Hutchinson. In his college career at the University of Michigan, Hutchinson broke the single-season sack record with 14 sacks in his senior year. He was a unanimous selection to the All-American Team and runner-up for the Heisman trophy in 2021. Selected in the first round with the number two overall pick, Hutchinson became the foundation of the Detroit Lions rebuild. In his rookie season, Hutchinson produced 9.5 sacks and 52 total tackles with 34 solo. He had three interceptions, three broken-up passes, and two fumble recoveries. Capping off his outstanding rookie season with the Lions, Hutchinson was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2022.
In his second year with the Lions, Hutchinson was a cornerstone for the Lions’ rebuilt defense. He finished the 17-game regular season with 51 tackles, 36 of which were solo tackles, 33 quarterback pressures, 11.5 sacks, and one interception. In addition, he recorded two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. In recognition of his efforts, Hutchinson was voted to the 2023 Pro Bowl. He was the only Lions player to represent the defense alongside five offensive teammates.
Looking Ahead to the 2024 Season
As he continues to learn and hone his skills, the self-effacing Hutchinson is filled with praise for his teammates and coach Dan Campbell. He is an eager and enthusiastic presence in the locker room and on the field, cheering other players and endearing himself to the Lions faithful.
In addition to Lions quarterback Jared Goff, star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, offensive tackle Penei Sewell, linebacker Alex Anzalone, and special teams player Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Hutchinson was honored as one of six team captains. He is the only one of the six in his first year as team captain.
As the Lions prepare to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, the team is eagerly awaiting the return of key defensive veteran, D.J. Reader. While Hutchinson has helped fill the gap. The team has been without the presence of the defensive lineman who is still recovering from a quadricep injury. But if the rumors are to be believed, the former Cincinnati Bengals standout will finally make his debut in a Lions uniform against the Buccaneers. Reader’s skillset will compliment the talents of players Alim McNeil and Marcus Davenport and only serve to strengthen an already formidable Lions defense.
On His Way
That sack on Stafford was a testament to Hutch’s drive, dedication, and determination to do his part to help the Lions win. One game at a time. One victory at a time. Until the team reaches the pinnacle of success in the NFL. Along the way to the team bringing home the Lombardi trophy, Hutchinson might just become the greatest defensive edge rusher of all time.
Main Photo: Junfu Han-USA TODAY NETWORK
