Lions' DE Aidan Hutchinson hints at "long rehab process" coming to an end

Detroit Lions star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson made clear on Friday that he was close to completing his rehab process after suffering a devastating injury during the 2024 season.

While speaking with NFL analyst Marty Smith at the iconic Masters golf tournament, Hutchinson outlined how he was finishing the final portion of his rehab process and was close to being fully ready to return.

"I’m there. I’d say I’m good, I’ve got my last evaluation tests when I get back — I leave today and I go back tomorrow to the rehab — I’m gonna finish those evals and once I knock them out of the park, I’ll be on my way and done with rehab. It was a long process, I’ll tell you that." (41:19)

In Week 6 of the 2024 NFL season, Hutchinson suffered a fractured tibia and fibula, which caused him to miss the remainder of the year. The injury required surgery and marked a long road back to full health for the Lions’ star defensive player.

Drafted No. 2 overall by the Lions in the 2022 NFL draft, Hutchinson has become one of the league’s top defenders.

In his last full season (2023), Hutchinson finished with a remarkable 51 total tackles, 36 solo tackles, 11.5 sacks, three forced fumbles and one interception.

Through five games in 2024, he had 19 total tackles, 12 solo tackles, 7.5 sacks and one forced fumble.

Will Hutchinson be ready for the 2025 season?

All signs point to Hutchinson being ready for the beginning of the 2025 NFL season. The addition of Hutchinson will be welcome news for the Lions, a team that appears built to compete for a Super Bowl.

Last season, injuries plagued the Lions’ defense late in the year — a factor that contributed to their struggles in the Divisional Round loss to the Washington Commanders.

With Hutchinson back and healthy in 2025, expectations will be extremely high for the Lions' defensive unit next year.