Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson faces a lengthy recovery after suffering a fractured leg during Sunday’s win, but a family member notes that it’s not unfamiliar territory for him.
Hutchinson sustained the injury in the Lions’ 47-9 victory over the Dallas Cowboys when he collided with teammate Alim McNeill while sacking quarterback Dak Prescott, resulting in a leg fracture.
While the injury will likely end Hutchinson’s season, a family member told Michael Stone of 97.1 The Ticket that Hutchinson endured a more severe injury during his college career at Michigan.
“A close member of @aidanhutch97 told me the following. Even though it looked bad, it’s less of an injury than he suffered in college,” Stone shared on X. “Pretty soon he will be bionic. When we make it to the Super Bowl, he will be ready to go.”
Hutchinson previously fractured his lower leg during his junior season at Michigan in 2020. He returned the following year to set a school record with 14 sacks in a single season.
Aidan Hutchinson Faces Long Recovery
The seriousness of Hutchinson’s injury was immediately evident, prompting quick medical attention. As reported by Frank Witsil of the Detroit Free Press, Hutchinson was taken to Baylor White Medical Center in Irving for surgery after being carted off the field and placed in an air cast.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell reassured that Hutchinson was receiving proper care.
“He’s being taken care of. He’ll stay back here,” Campbell said. “Obviously, he’s going to be down for a while. It’s tough, man. Losing someone like him is hard.”
David Fausone, a professor in Oakland University’s physical therapy department, told the Detroit Free Press that Hutchinson could soon begin rehab.
Fausone said Hutchinson would likely use crutches at first, and as the swelling and pain decrease, doctors and therapists would help him regain movement. He would then work on strength and range of motion, Fausone added.
Chance to Return This Season
On Monday, Campbell offered a positive update, confirming the family’s speculation that Hutchinson might return later this season.
“The surgery went great — it’s all good news,” Campbell said, via Schuyler Dixon of The Associated Press. “It’s probably 4-6 months, but I would never count Hutch out. It’s tough, but if anyone could make it back, it’s him.”
This timeline aligns with the Lions’ ambitions. Campbell stated before the season that the team had Super Bowl aspirations after last season’s trip to the NFC Championship. With a 4-1 start, they’re on track for another playoff appearance.
However, replacing Hutchinson’s production in the meantime will be a challenge. He led the team with 7.5 sacks, while McNeill was second with 2.5 sacks. No other player had more than 1.5 sacks this season.
