Detroit Lions star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson is receiving big attention heading into the 2025–26 NFL season. After missing much of last season due to a devastating injury, expectations are high as he makes his return.
The Lions dealt with several injuries last season, particularly on defense. Hutchinson’s season-ending injury was one of the most heartbreaking blows—but despite his absence, Detroit still made the playoffs. Before going down, Hutchinson was on pace to become one of the league’s top defenders. Now, questions linger about whether he can return to that level, but Detroit seems confident he will.
As the 2025 training camp approaches, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler published his edge rusher rankings—voted on by league executives, coaches, and scouts. Hutchinson came in at No. 7.
“Voters gave us their 10 best players at a position, then we compiled the results and ranked candidates based on number of top-10 votes, composite average and dozens of interviews, with research and film study help from ESPN NFL analyst Matt Bowen,” Fowler explains.
Despite missing 12 games due to a broken leg, Hutchinson retained his elite status.
“Often, a serious injury can move an elite player out of a top-10,” Fowler writes. “Not the case with Hutchinson, who sustained his momentum despite missing 12 games because of a broken leg.”
He notes that Hutchinson’s performance in the games he did play was “phenomenal,” adding that the pass rusher led the league in sacks, pressures, and win rate. Based on that, he’s expected to have a huge 2025 season.
NFL insiders are also high on him. One NFC executive told ESPN:
“He was on his way to the top three (with Garrett and Watt). I thought he would have been a finalist for (Defensive Player of the Year) last season if he hadn’t gotten hurt.”
An AFC executive added:
“Rare motor, exceptional length, great combination of athleticism and power.”
Back in May, PFF’s Ryan Smith ranked Hutchinson No. 5 among edge defenders and predicted he’d be a serious Defensive Player of the Year contender for the NFC North–favorite Lions.
Hutchinson’s 2024 season might have been a career year had it not been cut short. But now, fans and experts alike are watching closely, hoping he returns stronger—and makes history in 2025.
