The Detroit Lions are rolling through the 2024 NFL regular season, all in spite of a critical injury loss. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson broke his tibia in Week 6 against the Dallas Cowboys and has emergency surgery that night for the compound fracture.
Spirits sunk for the organization after the injury, but they’ve been on a roll ever since. Detroit has won five straight since Hutchinson broke his leg and have the best record in the NFC at 9-1.
Multiple reports have suggested Hutchinson could return in time for Super Bowl 59 if the Lions make it that far. All signs have been positive thus far, and over the weekend, Hutchinson gave Lions fans a little more hope. He posted a rehab video with the caption “One step at a time.” He is performing aquatic therapy featuring some basic walking in a pool. This suggests he is not quite in a position to be putting any serious weight on his leg outside of the water, but aquatic therapy offers a key component in rehab.
The Lions are going to be pushed through the rest of the season in their bid for the best record in the NFC and also the NFC North title. The Eagles and Vikings are each a game back, while the Packers are two games back.
Detroit travels to face Indianapolis in Week 12, and then has three straight home games against Chicago, Green Bay, and Buffalo. They likely won’t claim the division in that time, but they can further secure their playoff position and improve their chances of having a shot at the Super Bowl — and a return from Aidan Hutchinson.
