Notes: Former Eagles star anticipates a strong return from Hutchinson

In the ever-evolving narrative of NFL pass rushers, few names have generated more buzz in recent seasons than Aidan Hutchinson. The former No. 2 overall pick of the Detroit Lions has been a cornerstone of the franchise’s defensive resurgence. Now, entering his third year, Hutchinson has garnered a significant endorsement from a legendary figure in the NFL trenches — a former Philadelphia Eagles star who knows a thing or two about high expectations and even higher production.

Trent Cole, the Eagles’ two-time Pro Bowler and long-time defensive end, has publicly praised Hutchinson’s growth, predicting that the Lions edge rusher is “on the verge of greatness” and poised for a breakout campaign in 2025. During a recent NFL Network segment, Cole didn’t mince words when asked about which young defensive stars are primed to make a leap.

“Aidan’s got all the tools. He’s hungry, he plays with a chip, and the league better be ready because I think we’re about to see him take that next step,” said Cole. “He’s just getting started.”

Cole’s words echo a broader sentiment around the league. Hutchinson, who posted 11.5 sacks and 74 pressures in 2024, wasn’t just good — he was foundational to the Lions’ NFC North title and their run to the NFC Championship Game. Still, critics argue he needs to take another leap to join the elite tier of pass rushers. If Cole is right, that leap is coming — and it could change the trajectory of Detroit’s defense.

Hutchinson’s rise has been anything but subtle. As a rookie in 2022, he notched 9.5 sacks, 3 interceptions, and was a finalist for Defensive Rookie of the Year. While Sauce Gardner ultimately claimed the award, Hutchinson’s impact was felt across the field. He set the tone with his energy, relentless motor, and ability to win with technique as well as power.

But 2023 was the turning point. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn began using Hutchinson more creatively — in wide-nine alignments, stunts, and even dropping him into coverage on zone blitzes. The result: Hutchinson became a problem for offenses in ways that went beyond traditional edge rushing.

In 2024, the numbers only improved: 11.5 sacks, 22 quarterback hits, 16 tackles for loss, and a career-best 82.4 PFF grade against the run. Though not quite in the Nick Bosa-Myles Garrett tier just yet, Hutchinson’s growth trajectory has been unmistakable.

For those unfamiliar with Trent Cole’s legacy, it’s worth noting the weight his words carry. Over 10 seasons with the Eagles, Cole racked up 85.5 sacks, two Pro Bowl selections, and a reputation for being one of the most consistent edge rushers of his era.

He’s not the type to offer empty praise. When he says Hutchinson reminds him of his younger self — only “more athletic” — it raises eyebrows.

“I see the way Hutch sets up his rush, how he’s always thinking one move ahead,” Cole said. “It’s not just speed or strength — it’s intelligence. That’s what makes a real pass rusher.”

Cole also pointed to Hutchinson’s versatility and leadership as X-factors for Detroit’s defense.

“When I look at Hutchinson, I see a guy who’s going to wear a gold jacket someday if he stays healthy. He’s already doing the hard things — playing every down, setting the edge, drawing double-teams. The sacks will come in waves.”

Hutchinson’s breakout potential isn’t just about personal growth — it’s also about the infrastructure around him. The Lions have invested heavily in their defense since head coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes took over in 2021. From signing veteran interior help to drafting complementary edge players like James Houston IV and defensive tackle Brodric Martin, Detroit’s front four is deeper and more physical than it has been in years.

The 2025 offseason saw even more additions, including the free-agent signing of Danielle Hunter and the second-round selection of edge rusher Jonah Elliss from Utah. These additions ensure that Hutchinson won’t be the sole focus of opposing protections — and that’s dangerous for any offensive coordinator.

“If I’m calling plays against Detroit next year,” said one NFC offensive assistant anonymously, “I’m sliding protection to Hutchinson. But now I can’t do that every play. They’re too deep. That’s when he’ll feast.”

For his part, Hutchinson hasn’t rested on his accolades. After the 2024 season ended in disappointment — a loss to the 49ers in the NFC title game — Hutchinson was back at work within weeks. Videos of his offseason training went viral, showcasing improved hand-fighting, ankle flexibility, and burst off the snap.

In an April interview with The Athletic, Hutchinson revealed a few key focuses for 2025:

• Finishing sacks: “There were at least five or six plays last year where I got there and just didn’t bring the quarterback down,” he said. “That’s the difference between 11 sacks and 17.”
• Explosiveness: Working with track coaches on his first-step quickness and bend.
• Play recognition: Studying film to better anticipate screens and read-options, areas where he occasionally got caught in 2024.

“I’m never satisfied,” Hutchinson told reporters. “You have to earn it every year in this league.”

If Hutchinson were to make the leap that Cole predicts, what would it look like on paper? Here’s a breakdown of elite defensive end benchmarks:

• Sacks: 15+ is the unofficial “elite” threshold.
• QB pressures: 70+ is excellent; Hutchinson already had 74 in 2024.
• Run defense: A PFF grade above 80 with consistent tackle production.

Projections for 2025 from advanced analytics site FTN Fantasy have Hutchinson at:

• 15.0 sacks
• 21 tackles for loss
• 85 total pressures
• 75.8% pass-rush win rate on true pass sets

Those numbers would not only place him in the Pro Bowl but firmly in All-Pro consideration. More importantly, they could make him a Defensive Player of the Year candidate — especially if the Lions contend again.

Inside the Lions locker room, Hutchinson’s ascension has been anything but quiet. Teammates rave about his motor, preparation, and vocal leadership. Veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone recently told The Detroit Free Press:

“You know what you’re going to get with Aidan every play. It’s not just the sacks — it’s how he plays the run, how he lifts the guys around him. He’s the heartbeat of our defense.”

Second-year linebacker Jack Campbell echoed the sentiment:

“Hutch is the standard in our room. If he’s running to the ball 30 yards downfield, no one has an excuse.”

So why now? What makes 2025 the season Hutchinson might level up into superstardom?

• Team Context: Detroit’s defense has matured around him. No longer a rebuilding unit, the Lions are one of the NFC’s most balanced rosters.
• Experience: Hutchinson has two full seasons under his belt. He’s seen every type of offensive scheme and adapted.
• Health and continuity: Barring injury, the Lions will field one of the most stable D-lines in football — giving Hutchinson fewer double teams and more one-on-ones.
• Motivation: That playoff loss to the 49ers still burns. Hutchinson has cited it as his “fuel” for the offseason.

Trent Cole’s prediction isn’t baseless hype. It’s the kind of nod that comes from one great recognizing another. Hutchinson may not be at the top of the mountain yet, but all signs point to a rapid ascent. Whether it’s the added tools in his pass-rush arsenal, the improved supporting cast, or just that unmistakable chip on his shoulder, the former Michigan Wolverine seems destined to turn potential into dominance.