Projecting what could happen before the Panthers pick at No. 6 – 2.0

Detroit Lions select Aidan Hutchinson

• Defensive End | Michigan

There will be a temptation for the Detroit Lions to select their quarterback of the future despite Jared Goff having two years remaining on his deal. However, if Aidan Hutchinson was not the pick at No. 1 overall then returning the defensive end to an area where he starred in college would be an immesely popular decision.

Hutchinson was extraordinary for the Michigan Wolverines in 2021 as they reached the college football playoffs. He relentless approach in pass-rushing situations stood out constantly and this was matched by a level of explosiveness that made life extremely difficult for anyone coming up against him.

The numbers back up the film. Hutchinson attained 62 tackles, 14 sacks, and 16.5 tackles for loss during his final college campaign, which resulted in the player finishing second in the Heisman Trophy voting to further boost his draft stock.

Detroit was one of the worst defensive teams in the league last season. Although this young roster did not stop fighting for their head coach Dan Campbell.

After drafting Penei Sewell from right under the Carolina Panthers in 2021, acquiring a tremendous edge rusher such as Hutchinson seems like a no-brainer. One that could provide a big boost to their plans for progression.