The Detroit Lions didn't have the kind of season they expected in 2025, but that doesn't mean there weren't some exceptional performances along the way.
Defensively, Aidan Hutchinson was a revelation one year removed from sustaining a terrible leg injury which prematurely ended his 2024 campaign. He posted 14.5 sacks, four forced fumbles and one interception on the year, proving there was no reason for fans to be concerned about rust setting in.
For his work, Hutchinson has earned a pair of fantastic nominations. Not only is Hutchinson a finalist for Comeback Player of the Year, he is also a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year honors. It's another strong reminder of how good Detroit's defensive end was this season.
While Hutchinson is more likely to win Comeback Player of the Year honors, it can't be overlooked that he is knocking on the door of becoming the best defensive player in football before he is 30 years old. In just four seasons, Hutchinson has amassed 43 sacks and five interceptions, looking like a game-changer for the Lions.
Unfortunately, Detroit's defense has struggled at the same time as Hutchinson has dominated. That's because there hasn't been elite play from others on the roster consistently enough. Health has been a problem for the Lions' top defenders, and Detroit hasn't had an elite presence up front to give Hutchinson a chance at maximizing his success.
If his elite 2025 season proves anything, it's that the franchise has to do everything in their power to go all-in on helping Hutchinson so that he can finally become the best defender in football.
Brad Holmes must do more to support Hutchinson ahead of 2026
It's becoming clear that the Lions need more than just Hutchinson to take the next step defensively. Hutchinson is certainly elite enough to carry Detroit's defense by himself, but it doesn't mean that needs to be the case moving forward for the franchise to have success.
Holmes has kicked the can down the road far enough. Entering this offseason, he continues to play it coy when it comes to what's next at defensive end.
"It'll be the same approach we took last year in terms of, the position wasn't ignored in the draft, it just didn't come together how we would have liked from a draft standpoint. (Al-Quadin) Muhammad played really well. I'm not sure how many other teams had an 11 sack and a 14.5 sack guy. I thought the rush was good, but I understand that (Muhammad's) a free agent. (Marcus) Davenport's a free agent, so we're definitely going to have to look and replenish opposite of Hutchinson for sure."
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The goal shouldn't be simply to replenish around Hutchinson or hope for health, but surround him with talent that makes him more dangerous. The Lions have needed a bonafide running mate for Hutchinson the last three seasons, and finding that player could represent the missing link for the franchise to finally win a Super Bowl.
Gambling on Muhammad replicating his production, Davenport staying healthy or Ahmed Hassanein becoming a late-round revelation isn't the play for the Lions. They must find a top talent early in the draft, or sign a game-changing presence at defensive end like Trey Hendrickson to rush the passer.
Hutchinson had another elite season, and may finally earn some hardware for his work this past year. For him to be a permanent threat, he might only need a little help.