2023 Stat Prediction for Aidan Hutchinson
Aidan Hutchinson was everything that the doctor ordered and then some during his rookie campaign with the Detroit Lions.
Subsequently, Hutchinson, a product of the University of Michigan and the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, quickly became a fan favorite among the Lions fanbase.
Most notably, the Michigan native – who became known for his high motor and relentless nature – provided a significant boost to Detroit's pass-rushing department.
He finished the 2022 season with 9.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hits, and logged 52 total tackles, including nine for loss.
The Dearborn (Mich.) Divine Child High School alum also produced three interceptions, three passes defensed and two fumble recoveries, becoming the first rookie in NFL history to record a season with at least 7.5 sacks, three interceptions and a pair of fumble recoveries.
For his efforts, he finished as the runner-up for the Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
To no surprise, Hutchinson is oozing with confidence headed into his second NFL season.
"My confidence right now is really through the roof,” the EDGE defender told reporters during OTAs earlier this offseason. “Me personally, I feel like I’m on a completely different level. And, I mean, instinctually, my explosiveness. Everywhere on the board, I feel like I’ve taken myself to the next level.”
Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn expects the talented pass rusher to become even more productive in his sophomore campaign as a pro.
"(I'll) continue to put him in a position to be successful and expect him to take another step, as far as being a dominant player," Glenn said of the second-year player during organized team activities. "Being on the edge, in the run and in the passing game. So, there’s no doubt he’ll be a better player this second year, than he was this year."
So, what will Hutchinson do for an encore in 2023?
I'm predicting that the EDGE rusher will record 60 total tackles, including 12 for loss, 11.5 sacks and 17 QB hits, to go along with a pair of passes defensed and fumble recoveries.
