Detroit Lions’ Aidan Hutchinson Nears Record $160M Contract After Injury Return

Aidan Hutchinson, a star edge rusher for the Detroit Lions, is recovering from a fractured tibia and fibula suffered during Week 5 of the 2024 NFL season and has now been medically cleared to return to practice. Despite missing a significant portion of the 2024 season, Hutchinson was on pace to lead the league in sacks and is predicted by analysts like ESPN's Mike Clay to have a career year in 2025, potentially recording 16.5 sacks and contending for Defensive Player of the Year. The Lions exercised Hutchinson's fifth-year option and are preparing to negotiate a lucrative contract extension, with reports suggesting a deal in the $150 million to $160 million range, positioning him among the highest-paid defensive players in the NFL. NFL insiders, including Ian Rapoport and Michael Holley, expect the Lions to commit long-term to Hutchinson, who remains a key figure in Detroit's defensive core and their Super Bowl aspirations. Hutchinson expressed excitement about returning to OTAs and helping the Lions, who had a franchise-best 15-2 record in his absence but fell short in the playoffs due to injuries. The potential extension would place Hutchinson just below Myles Garrett as the highest-paid pass rusher, reflecting his value to the Lions and his projected impact in the coming seasons.