The Detroit Lions’ season came to a shocking end with a 45-31 loss to the Washington Commanders in the divisional round of the playoffs. Despite their regular-season dominance, the Lions were outplayed on both sides of the ball, squandering a prime opportunity to make a deep postseason run.
Offensive Struggles and Defensive Challenges
The Lions’ offense struggled throughout the game, committing five turnovers and failing to establish rhythm. On the other side of the ball, defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn’s unit was overwhelmed by the Commanders’ high-powered offense, which racked up 481 total yards. This included 182 rushing yards at an efficient 4.3 yards per carry. The Lions’ defense, which faced an onslaught of injuries throughout the season, was unable to withstand the pressure.
Aidan Hutchinson’s Season-Ending Injury
Among the numerous injuries Detroit faced, the most significant was to star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who fractured his tibia and fibula in Week 6 against the Dallas Cowboys. Prior to the injury, Hutchinson was having a career-best season, recording 7.5 sacks and 45 quarterback pressures in just five games. The former second-overall pick from the 2022 NFL Draft appeared poised to contend for Defensive Player of the Year honors before his season was abruptly cut short.
Hutchinson’s injury marked a turning point for the Lions’ defense, which struggled to maintain its dominance without him. His absence exposed weaknesses in Detroit’s defensive front and highlighted just how valuable he is to the team.
Massive Contract Extension Predicted
Despite his season-ending injury, Aidan Hutchinson remains one of the most dominant defensive players in the league, and the Lions are expected to make a significant financial commitment to secure him long-term. Sportsnaut’s Matt Johnson predicts that Detroit general manager Brad Holmes will offer Hutchinson a five-year, $177 million contract extension this offseason. The deal is expected to include $95 million in fully guaranteed money and an annual average value (AAV) of $35 million, which would make Hutchinson the highest-paid edge rusher in the NFL.
This contract would surpass the deal of San Francisco 49ers’ star Nick Bosa, who currently earns $34 million per season. The Lions are reportedly eager to lock Hutchinson into this deal before his market value increases even further, especially as he recovers from his injury.
Hutchinson’s Impact and Potential
Before his injury, Hutchinson had proven himself as one of the most impactful defensive linemen in the league. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses and generate consistent pressure on quarterbacks set him apart as a Pro Bowl-level talent. Despite concerns about his injury, experts believe he will fully recover and return to form by the 2025 season. At just 24 years old, Hutchinson has yet to enter the prime years of his career, making this extension a worthwhile investment for the Lions.
The Lions have over $69.7 million in cap space heading into the 2025 offseason, giving them the flexibility to prioritize Hutchinson’s extension. While the deal would represent a significant financial commitment, Hutchinson’s potential and proven impact make him a cornerstone of the franchise. By securing him now, the Lions can avoid higher costs in the future and solidify their defensive foundation as they aim to build on their 2024 success.
The Bottom Line
Aidan Hutchinson’s injury may have derailed his season, but it hasn’t diminished his value to the Detroit Lions. With his talent and potential, extending him with a record-breaking contract would signal the team’s commitment to remaining competitive and solidifying their defensive identity. If the Lions act swiftly, Hutchinson’s return in 2025 could be the key to taking them deeper into the playoffs and securing their place as an NFC powerhouse.
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