When the Detroit Lions selected star Michigan Wolverines defensive end Aidan Hutchinson with the No. 2 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, they absolutely expected him to be making plays for their defense this season, but maybe not quite in the way that he’s done it so far this year.
This season, Aidan Hutchinson has 7.5 sacks, which is impressive, but makes sense given the position he plays. But he’s also touched the ball more than anyone has ever expected, with three interceptions and two fumble recoveries so far this year. And when asked about his interceptions and fumble recoveries this season, he got hilariously honest.
“I’ve never touched the ball this much,” Hutchinson said according to Kyle Meinke of MLive.com. “Ball’s on the ground, ball’s in the air, I feel like I got a chance. It’s fun and it’s crazy to hear that stat, but I’m just out here doing my thing.”
Hutchinson is just the second player in team history with at least 7.5 sacks, three interceptions, and two fumble recoveries in a single season, joining Richard Dent. Hilariously, he is also tied for the team lead in interceptions this season despite playing on the defensive line.
It’s safe to say it’s been quite a rookie year for him.
[MLive]
About Kevin Harrish