The Detroit Lions are battling a number of injuries, and their Super Bowl aspirations are facing a harsh reality. But star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson could change the team’s fortunes.
Hutchinson suffered a severe leg injury during the second half of the Lions’ 47-9 win over the Dallas Cowboys on Oct. 13, and underwent surgery to repair a fractured tibia and fibula in October.
Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, 97, is examined by team staff after being injured during the second half of a game against the Dallas Cowboys on Oct. 13, 2024, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Jerome Miron)
Despite the nature of the injury, Hutchinson said Wednesday that he plans to return in time for a Super Bowl appearance.
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“My goal to come back in the Super Bowl is on track,” Hutchinson said on the podcast “The Squeeze.” “Whenever I meet the boys at the facility, I always say, ‘You guys just have to go there. I promise you, you’ll come back.'”
Hutchinson added that when her mother asked her about the reality of recovering in time, she replied, “There’s no other way.”
Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson reacts during the second quarter of a game against the Dallas Cowboys on October 13, 2024 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. (Kevin Jairaj/Imagn Images)
Dan Campbell drops profanity while discussing Lions’ latest injury in radio interview
Hutchinson is one of six defensive starters who have been sidelined since Week 1. Additionally, more than 20 players were placed on injured reserve during the season following last week’s blowout loss to the Buffalo Bills.
But head coach Dan Campbell said Monday the team is not making excuses.
“Nobody cares,” he said Monday. “No one is going to give us a pass or put an asterisk next to your record.”
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell answers questions regarding Aidan Hutchinson’s injury during a post-game press conference against the Dallas Cowboys on Oct. 13, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Jerome Miron)
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The Lions suffered a narrow loss to Buffalo, ending their winning streak at 11. They will finish the season with games against the Chicago Bears, San Francisco 49ers, and Minnesota Vikings.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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