Michael Strahan Says Aidan Hutchinson Will Be 'Future Star'
Detroit Lions defensive lineman Aidan Hutchinson distinguished himself as one of the league's top rising stars.
No other rookie in in NFL history was able to produce the numbers the former Wolverines standout recorded in his debut campaign in the NFL.
In 2022, Hutchinson recorded 9.5 sacks, three interceptions, nine tackles for loss and two fumble recoveries.
"I just think he's going to be a future star," Fox Sports NFL analyst Michael Strahan said, via the Lions website. "He made a lot of plays that stars make in his rookie year. The future is really, really bright. I'm excited. I think that everyone thinks that because you're pick No. 2 that you're going to come in and instantly have success and it's a different level. Completely different level."
More: Pros and Cons of Lions Re-Signing Will Harris
Hutchinson is currently in the running for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
The current favorite to win the award, voted on by the Associated Press, is New York Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner.
Despite Garnder's success, Hutchinson's teammate Michael Brockers explained to "Good Morning Football" Wednesday why the 22-year-old deserves the award.
“Biasedly obviously, I think he should win the crown because just look at how much he -- he rushes the pass really well, he drops in coverage, caught a bunch of interceptions this season, made plays. He’s always around the ball," Brockers said. "He made an impact when he was in the game. I just think he is an all-around player who just made an impact while he was on the field. I think he did well at that while being a rookie."
Brockers continued, “I tip my hat off to him, because Aaron Glenn’s defense is not an easy defense to learn, and especially if you’re rushing the passer sometimes and you’re dropping sometimes. I just tip my hat to the guy. He’s a hell of a player. He was a great rookie. I can say that, and he has a long career ahead of him.”
Hutchinson's play also caught the attention of coaches in the NFC North.
Bears head coach Matt Eberflus expressed, "He’s got a good skill set. Good rush set for him, and that’s what the defense is trying to emulate."
Eberflus also explained to reporters, "They have to be highly skilled, which he is. And, they have to give great effort, and that’s what he does. So, he brings that to the table.”
