Aidan Hutchinson Is Wrecking Lions’ Practices: It’s Like Aaron Donald

Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) celebrates 26-20 win over Los Angeles Rams with Aidan Hutchinson

Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff is often reminded of his former Los Angeles Rams teammate when evaluating the play of defensive end Aidan Hutchinson.

Goff, appearing on 97.1 The Ticket, is reminded of just how dominant Aaron Donald was during practice and is really thankful Hutchinson is on his team.

“It’s like Aaron Donald back in the day,” said Goff. “It’s the same way. He’s a guy who can ruin a game, he’s certainly ruined practice for us a couple times offensively, and I’m so happy he’s on our side and I don’t have to play against him.”

Hutchinson has been so dialed in, in fact, that Dan Campbell must let a play continue after the former No. 2 pick clearly earned a sack.

Since his return, Hutchinson has been simply dominant. In his first day back participating in full team periods, left tackle Taylor Decker also got a first-hand look of what the former Michigan Wolverines defensive end is capable of.

Hutchinson was so quick off the edge that Decker was simply unable to slow him down.

According to the team website, “Aidan Hutchinson has been so dominant for most of Lions training camp that head coach Dan Campbell sometimes has to adopt the Hutch rule at practice. The Hutch rule is when Hutchinson beats his man and likely has a sack on a play but they don’t blow the whistle and continue the rep so the offense can get their work in during team periods.”

Goff has noticed the defense has been making their fair share of plays each and every day of practice.

New defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard is sending pressure from a variety of positions and Detroit’s offense has struggled at times throughout the first couple of weeks of camp.

“They’re much more confident and comfortable. I think mostly just because they’re a year older and all their dudes are back. It’s fun to practice against, it is. It’s a challenge,” Goff explained. “They make it really hard, Coach Shep’s making It really hard on me.

“Those two guys in the backend with Kerby (Joseph) and (Brian) Branch, I can’t imagine a better two to practice against every day. DJ Reed’s been a tremendous addition for us, from leadership to pure ability. Obviously the linebackers have done great, and then Hutch has been pretty unbelievable.”

Detroit’s offense was able to rebound slightly during practice on Monday, as the team won more reps during competive drills and the offensive line held their own in the pit.

Related Posts

Would this BOLD Coaching Hire Push Detroit Lions Over the Top?

With Jim Schwartz reportedly unhappy in Cleveland, should the Detroit Lions consider bringing their former head coach back to help elevate the defense in 2026?

Lions mailbag: Why be optimistic about Drew Petzing? What’s David Montgomery’s future?

Maybe Petzing wasn’t the right fit in Arizona. Could that be different alongside Dan Campbell in Detroit?

BREAKING : Alex Anzalone Reveals How Quick Free Agents Make Decisions

Detroit Lions veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone addresses free agency rumors.

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Detroit Lions prioritize line of scrimmage in full 7-round mock

The 2026 offseason will be pivotal for the Lions. After a disappointing 2025 season that saw them miss the playoffs despite entering the year as Super Bowl cont

Lions Face Criticism for Decision About Team’s Future

The Detroit Lions are getting pushback for yet another decision they’re making for the 2026-27 season as the offseason ramps up.

Lions’ top 10 most impactful injuries of 2025: No. 1, Taylor Decker

The Detroit Lions finished the 2025 NFL season with a 9-8 record, finishing fourth in the NFC North and missing the playoffs. Injuries played a significant role in their…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *