Detroit Lions’ Aidan Hutchinson Gets Major Prediction

The Detroit Lions had a ton of injuries during the 2024-25 season, especially on the defensive squad. Hopefully that won’t repeat during the 2025-26 season. One of the biggest disappointments for the entire season was when star edge Aidan Hutchinson suffered a season-ending injury. It’s a miracle that the Lions still did so well and made it to the playoffs after Hutchinson was out for the season.

Before getting injured, Hutchinson was on target to be one of the best players in his position in the league, if not the best. There are always question marks when a player returns after a season-ending injury, but in Hutchinson’s case, Detroit feels pretty comfortable that he’ll be back and better than ever.

Now, Hutchinson is getting a major prediction going into the 2025-26 season. It’s a mixed bag, but some of it is very good. Hopefully he’ll surprise NFL analysts and experts with his abilities.

Lions Edge Aidan Hutchinson Ranked in the NFL

In just a few short weeks, the 2025 NFL training camps will begin, so it’s a good time to study the Lions’ roster and see where the team stands in regards to the rest of the NFL. In a feature published on Wednesday, July 9, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN lays out the best edge rushers in the league, as picked by NFL executives, coaches and scouts.

“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 states. “In total, more than 70 voters submitted a ballot on at least one position, and in many cases all positions.”

So, where do they have Hutchinson? Let’s just say, he could have been higher. He’s No. 7 on the tally, but in all fairness, it’s due to injury. Maxx Crosby is No. 4, by the way.

“Often, a serious injury can move an elite player out of a top-10,” Fowler notes. “Not the case with Hutchinson, who sustained his momentum despite missing 12 games because of a broken leg.”

He adds that the games Hutchinson did play in 2025 were “phenomenal” and that Hutchinson lead the NFL in sacks, pressures and win rate. So, he’s predicted to go far this season.

More Praise for Lions’ Aidan Hutchinson

“He was on his way to the top three (with Garrett and Watt),” an NFC executive told ESPN. “I thought he would have been a finalist for (Defensive Player of the Year) last season if he hadn’t gotten hurt. Rare motor, exceptional length, great combination of athleticism and power,” an AFC executive added.

In a PFF feature from last May, Ryan Smith has Hutchinson ranked No. 5, stating, “Heading into this season, Hutchinson will be a popular Defensive Player of the Year candidate for the division-favorite Detroit Lions.”

So, last season could have been a massive year for Hutchinson, had he not gotten injured. That was really a heartbreaking moment, to see Hutchinson on the field, hurting, and then to learn that he would be out for the entire season. Hopefully, he’s charged up and ready to make some good history come September.