The Detroit Lions were on their way to record a convincing victory over the Cowboys in Dallas as they led 34-6 in the second half. However, that happiness was short-lived for their defensive end, Aidan Hutchinson, who suffered a gruesome leg injury while trying to sack the Cowboys QB Dak Prescott.

During that attempt to add to his tally of sacks this season, Hutchinson found himself hitting teammate Alim McNeill awkwardly, which might have resulted in his injury. Once he fell onto the ground, writhing in pain, the Detroit trainers ran into the field to put his leg into an air cast. This was made to stabilize his injury, which didn’t look good as players from both teams surrounded him in support.

Even fans were quick to express their prayers and concerns, citing Hutchinson’s injury, “That’s horrific. Prayers up for Aidan Hutchinson.” While others chimed in about feeling heartbroken seeing his injury at first glance, “My heart is absolutely breaking for Aidan Hutchinson.” Well, seeing the way Hutchinson had been playing this season, he was probably on his way to winning the Defensive Player of the Season award.

Going into the match-up, the Lions’ defensive end was leading the NFL in terms of sacks (6.5) and QB hits (14). Before going down with a potential season-ending injury this week, Hutchinson had already racked up three tackles, thereby showing his importance to the Lions resilience at the back.

Having played all the games before this leg injury, the 24-year-old sophomore could be seeing a lengthy time on the sidelines. As shared by Jesse Morse, a sports doctor, Hutchinson may have suffered a fibula fracture that could need surgery if things don’t go his way. If he does find himself on the treatment table looking for surgery, the Lions would be missing a key defensive player to continue their charge toward Super Bowl ambitions this season.

Aidan Hutchinson’s injury derails the Lions expectations this year

Although there aren’t any confirmations yet regarding his absence from the squad. His absence would surely be felt, considering the way he had been performing since 2022. When the Lions picked him as their No.2 overall draft pick in 2022, there were signs of his talents catching everyone in the NFL by surprise. Well, it did, as the Lions’ defensive end is leading with 27.5 sacks compared to other players in Detroit.

Even in his rookie season, Hutchinson finished as a runner-up for Defensive Rookie of the Year, which saw him record 9.5 sacks and three interceptions. Entering his second season in the NFL, Aidan went above and beyond by getting a Pro Bowl accolade for his 11.5 sacks and a single interception last year.

Considering the start he had this season, he would have surely cemented his place as the MVP for the Lions’ defense. However, it doesn’t seem like he would be any closer to that accolade, as the defensive end is almost certain to face a lengthy time off the field.