NFL Rumors: Aidan Hutchinson Could Return from Leg Injury if Lions Reach Super Bowl

If the Detroit Lions are able to make an appearance in Super Bowl 59, the team could be getting a big reinforcement.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Saturday that star pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson has a "realistic chance" to return if the Lions are able to emerge from the NFC and compete for a championship.

Hutchinson suffered a fractured left tibia and fibula during Detroit's 47-9 win over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 6, undergoing surgery immediately after the game.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell didn't rule out Hutchinson for the rest of the season when speaking to reporters on Monday, anticipating a recovery process of four to six months.

"I would never count Hutch out. Ever," Campbell said, per ESPN's Eric Woodyard. "So, probably a long road, but I would never count him out and I would say if anybody can make it back, it'd be him."

Hutchinson has been a crucial member of Detroit's defense since he was selected with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL draft, recording 28.5 sacks in 39 games. He was in the midst of a career year prior to the injury, taking down opposing quarterbacks 7.5 times in five starts.

The Lions will need to rely on a collective effort to replace Hutchinson's production which includes defensive tackle Alim McNeill, who signed a four-year extension worth $97 million on Tuesday.

Detroit could also trade for an external option to bolster its pass rush, as Schefter reported on Saturday that the team is "already is making calls to other teams inquiring about the availability of defensive ends."

The Lions made a smaller addition on Tuesday, signing defensive lineman Isaiah Thomas off the Cincinnati Bengals' practice squad.

Detroit owns a 4-1 record this season and has a strong chance to make the playoffs for a second consecutive year. If the Lions are able to improve even further following an appearance in the NFC Championship Game, Hutchinson could return.