Detroit Lions fans are holding out hope that star pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson could return this season if the team makes a deep playoff run. Based on Hutchinson’s recent comments, that possibility seems realistic.
On Tuesday’s episode of Good Morning Football on NFL Network, a clip aired from an interview where Hutchinson shared that his goal is to suit up for Super Bowl LIX if the Lions make it that far. He indicated that his recovery is progressing well.
“I’m on track for my goal of returning for the Super Bowl,” Hutchinson said. “I keep telling all the boys at the facility, ‘You guys just have to get there, and I promise you I’ll be back.’ I tell people that. My mom said, ‘But Aidan, what if you don’t make it back? What if you can’t?’ And I told her, ‘There’s no other way.’”
Hutchinson suffered a severe leg injury in Week 6, fracturing his left tibia and fibula in what was described as one of the season’s most gruesome injuries. Despite this, reports have consistently suggested optimism from both Hutchinson and the Lions about his potential return if Detroit advances deep into the playoffs.
The Lions have managed to stay competitive without Hutchinson. Their 11-game win streak ended Sunday with a loss to the Buffalo Bills, during a game in which several other key players also sustained season-ending injuries.
Before his injury, Hutchinson had recorded 7.5 sacks in just five games. Even if his role in the postseason is limited, his presence could provide a significant boost to Detroit’s defense.
