2022 NFL Draft Profile: DE Aidan Hutchinson

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Regarded by many analysts as the most NFL-ready defensive end, Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson brings a full toolbox and motor to the table. The 6-foot-5, 265-pound standout from Plymouth, Michigan, nearly swept the major awards this season. Outside of taking home the Lott, Hendricks, Lombardi and Outland trophies, Hutchinson finished second in the Heisman balloting. The consensus All-American led the Big Ten in sacks with 14.5, taking home Defensive Player Of The Year honors, as well.

Strengths

Hutchinson offers the most complete pass rush repertoire in the entire draft class. First, blessed with long arms, helps with the bull rush, as well as the swim. Next, the rip utilizes flexibility, allowing him to dip under initial blocks while his legs churn towards the passer. Moreover, Hutchinson profiles as a three-down rusher with his knack for sniffing out the run, defeating block with quick hands and quicker feet.

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Weaknesses

While aggressiveness serves him well, it can betray him at times. By overrunning the play, he must trace back. However, the ballcarrier will find the area he vacated and take advantage. At the next level, patient backs will use this to their advantage, gashing the defense on Hutchinson’s side. While using burst, the prospect does not possess the blinding speed that you’d expect from a high draft pick.

Ideal Role

From the moment of his drafting, Hutchinson becomes a starting defensive end on his team. Like both Bosa brothers, the defense needs to be built around him as the centerpiece. While he could conceivably rush occasionally from a standup position, Hutchinson thrives in a 4-3, with his hands in the dirt.

Potential Fits

The Lions make the most sense for the most obvious reasons. Local standout player, a franchise defensive end with a high ceiling, less than an hour away. Although Detroit uses the 3-4, making Hutchinson an OLB, they would alter that look to a hybrid 4-3. The Lions surrendered the third-most yards last season. By adding Hutchinson, the Lions immediately improve upfront, taking heat off the secondary.