Aidan Hutchinson suffered a fractured tibia and fibula during a Week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys last season, in a devastating blow to both the player and the Detroit Lions. Despite his injury, Hutchinson now qualifies for his first contract extension since being drafted in 2022, having been in the league for three years.
Speaking on a recent episode of “Pro Football Talk,” NFL insider Michael Holley gave his thoughts on whether the feared edge rusher should expect a new deal any time soon.
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Michael Holley Gives Thoughts on Aidan Hutchinson’s Contract Situation Following Player’s Return to Practice
While most players could forget about a lucrative contract extension following a double leg fracture, Hutchinson is not “most players.” The intimidating edge rusher has become a fan favorite in Detroit and is one of the most feared defensive players in the game.
Having been sidelined for 12 regular-season games in 2024, as well as the team’s playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, Hutchinson was recently fully cleared for football activities. That news will have been music to the ears of the entire Lions organization and its fanbase, given the player’s importance to the team and its Super Bowl chances.
During an appearance on “Pro Football Talk,” with host Mike Florio, the aforementioned Holley was asked about Hutchinson’s chances of getting a new deal before September. The player has two years remaining on his current contract, giving the Lions the option of waiting to see how their star recovers in 2025. But with several top edge rushers in line for new deals, it would be understandable if Hutchinson had his eye on an extension this summer.
Holley stated that, despite Hutchinson’s injury, he believed the Lions would soon open their checkbook and commit to the player, long term.
“I’m not putting my ‘insider’ hat on, here, this is my ‘common sense’ hat,” he began. “Based on how Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell have done business since they’ve been in Detroit, common sense tells me that he’s gonna have a contract. He’s gonna have a market-level contract, and it’s gonna happen soon.”
Hutchinson is due less than $26 million over the next two seasons, representing enormous value for Detroit. There are currently 25 edge rushers in the NFL who average at least $13 million per year; Myles Garrett leads the way with his new deal, averaging $40 million annually.
While Hutchinson’s recent injury makes it a risky time to more than double his salary, his impact when on the field has more than warranted an extension, and he may not have to wait long to receive it.