DETROIT — Aidan Hutchinson, the defensive end for the Detroit Lions, is focused on making a comeback from a serious leg injury as he aspires to contribute to the team’s quest for an NFL championship.
“I’m on track for my goal of returning for the Super Bowl,” Hutchinson shared in a recent episode of “The Squeeze” podcast, which was released on Wednesday. He reassured his teammates, saying, “You guys just got to get there. I promise you, I’m going to be back.”
The young player underwent surgery two months ago to fix fractures in his tibia and fibula, an injury he sustained during a victory while playing against Dallas.
Prior to his injury, Hutchinson was leading the NFL with 7.5 sacks, a remarkable achievement through just five games, significantly outpacing other Lions players who have not reached similar numbers this season.
Initially, when Hutchinson broke his left leg in mid-October, doctors estimated that his recovery would take approximately four to six months. The Super Bowl is set for February 9 in New Orleans, which will be just shy of four months post-surgery for Hutchinson.
As of now, both the Lions and the Buffalo Bills are viewed as top contenders for the Super Bowl title, according to the BetMGM Sportsbook. The Lions’ impressive franchise record of 11 consecutive wins was halted recently with a close 48-42 loss at home against the Bills.
Currently, the Lions hold a 12-2 record and are gearing up for their upcoming matchup against the Chicago Bears, who sit at 4-10. Detroit is vying for a first-place tie with the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC North, as well as competing for the top seed in the conference alongside the Vikings and the Philadelphia Eagles.