Aidan Hutchinson: 'I'm Ready to Unleash the Beast'
Detroit Lions rookie defensive lineman Aidan Hutchinson finds himself with increased time on his hands.
Life in the National Football League has proven to be slightly different for the No. 2 overall pick in this year's draft.
Just a few months removed from collegiate life, the young defensive lineman is using the added time to study and prepare for the biggest test of his life: battling opposing NFL offensive linemen.
"I got a lot more time on my hands," Hutchinson told reporters this week, ahead of the Lions' 2022 season debut. "I've been watching a ton of film. It's a little different than college. You don't got to go home and write a paper. You can go home and watch some film. So, it's different. I'm just adjusting to this life right now, and I'm loving it. I get to go home and really just watch football and prepare for this game. I had a lot of time on my hands, so I'm using it wisely."
All throughout training camp, teammates and the Lions' coaching staff have commented on the young rookie's professionalism and dedication to improving at the next level.
In fact, several members of the Lions' roster have expressed that Hutchinson does not present himself like a typical rookie would, coming into his rookie season with such a high profile.
Detroit defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn does not need to provide the rookie with any additional motivation.
The investment was made after months of evaluation, and due to the ex-Wolverines defensive lineman checking each and every box for being a player that the team is looking to stockpile more of.
"Play football. There’s one thing about that player, you don’t have to give him advice about his intensity level," said Glenn. "He’s already at the intensity level. You guys have seen him practice, you’ve seen him play. So, there’s nothing to be said about that. You don’t have to over-coach that player on that. That’s just natural for him, so we’re going to let Aidan be Aidan. And, you’ll see exactly what you’re going to get from him.”
The weeks of preparation will now be put to good use, as Hutchinson is primed and ready for his NFL debut.
The Eagles' offensive line was able to bully Detroit's defensive line last year, so the hope is that a different outcome will result this weekend at Ford Field.
"I think we've got a really good opponent in front of us, and one that, we watched the tape from last year, and it leaves a bad taste in your mouth," Hutchinson said. "So, yeah, I think we're all excited, and I'm ready to unleash the beast."
