Aidan Hutchinson | Michigan 6’7” 260 lbs. | 9/9/2000 (Age 21)
Aidan Hutchinson was drafted second overall by the Detroit Lions, becoming the second edge defender drafted and second overall defensive player in the 2021 NFL Draft.
COLLEGE PRODUCTION
A top-10 defensive end recruit and the Wolverines’ Rookie of the Year in 2018, Aidan Hutchinson had a mediocre sophomore season and a junior season cut short by a broken leg. There were concerns about how he would respond to the surgery, but in 2021 he exceeded his high expectations in his senior season. Hutchinson posted 14 sacks, 16.5 TFLs, and 62 tackles while forcing two fumbles and breaking up three passes. He was a voted first-team Associated Press All-American and Big Ten Conference Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year, and Defensive Lineman of the Year.
While Hutchinson is solid athletically, he doesn’t have the same elite traits or athleticism as Travon Walker or Kayvon Thibodeaux. Hutchinson is viewed as a “safe” pick. He does play the run well and has the potential to be a double-digit sack contributor in the NFL.
ATHLETIC TESTING
At the NFL Combine, Hutchinson measured at 6’7” and 260 lbs. Hutchinson ran the 40-yard dash in 4.74 and posted an impressive 36-inch vertical. His 6.73 three-cone drill and 4.15 short shuttle are solid times for his size. His 2021 response to injury should alleviate any concerns teams have about his durability.
DRAFT ANALYSIS
Rapid Reaction to Draft Capital: Excellent
Rapid Reaction to Landing Spot: Excellent
Hutchinson was the second overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions.
FANTASY INSIGHTS
Hutchinson is scheme versatile and should be a very good start with a very high floor, but his ceiling might not be as elevated as some of the talent he’s been compared to. He will be an immediate starter on the Lions and can be considered as a DE starter on fantasy teams, projecting as a low DE2 to high DE3. He should get drafted in the middle of the second round in most IDP dynasty leagues.
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