The Detroit Lions took Aidan Hutchison out of Michigan with the second overall pick in the NFL Draft after the Jaguars took Travon Walker first overall. Hutchison was originally the favorite to go first overall but was surpassed by Walker prior to the draft. But the Lions are happy that he fell since they have been targeting him for a long while. Detroit needs a stopper on defense and Aidan Hutchison certainly fits that role.
Hutchison was one of the best college edge rushers in the nation last year. He played a prominent role in helping Michigan get to the Final Four in 2021. Hutchison finished the season with a jaw-dropping 14 sacks for the Wolverines.
The 6'6, 245 pound defensive lineman will be a Lions fan favorite. He is also placed in a perfect position to excel. And there is also the fact that Hutchison wanted the Lions to take him.
“I was just praying the Lions were gonna take me. It’s a little bit scary when you get in that green room, and the Lions are on the clock and you’re just sitting there. I’m like, ‘Dear God, just please pick me.’”
But are the Lions a good fit for Hutchison? Was taking him second overall the correct pick?
2 Reasons Aidan Hutchison is the Perfect Fit for the Lions
Hutchison is a Michigan Product
Not only did Aidan Hutchison attend the University of Michigan, but he is also originally from state. Hutchison was born in Plymouth, Michigan, and played high school ball at Divine Child High School before ultimately committing to the Wolverines.
But the football-related reason this is extremely important is from a weather standpoint. Some players who get drafted by mid-west teams stem from California or Florida. They aren't used to the cold and sometimes snowy weather may have negative underlying affects on their performance.
However, this won't be a problem for Hutchison. He should get off to a strong start with the Lions in 2022 regardless of the weather in Detroit.
The Lions Strategy will Bring the Best Out of Hutchison
Aidan Hutchison made an interesting statement about why he is going to fit into Dan Campbell and the Lions' scheme.
“I think the play style is just relentless,” Hutchinson stated. “It’s nasty, and I think that’s what the whole coaching staff has brought here. I think I come in, I bring that same mentality. I think that’s why I’m a perfect fit for this scheme and that Detroit grit. So, I think I fit that mold.”
Detroit prides themselves on being a hard-nosed team that plays gritty football despite the outcome of the game. And Aidan Hutchison certainly shares that mentality. He is known as a nice guy off the field but is all business on the gridiron. He has a similar aura to JJ Watt in that sense.
Detroit's strategy should bring the best out of Hutchison.