The Detroit Lions missed the chance to make it to the playoffs, finishing with a 9-8 record last season.

However, defensive end Aidan Hutchinson became one of the franchise's saving graces. While his performance in the 2025 season was incredible, former left tackle Terron Armstead was impressed by him in his rookie season.

Armstead spent nine seasons with the New Orleans Saints and three seasons with the Miami Dolphins.

He showered praise on Hutchinson while speaking on the St.Browns podcast. “I played Aidan his rookie year, and he’s an alien, bro,” Armstead said. “I had no idea he was 6 feet 7 inches. I’m thinking he’s 6-3, 6-4. I see the kid, he’s like 6-9. And with most rookies, I can change up sets; they can’t read it. Jump sets, all of that. He’s seeing all of it. He was fire, bro. His rookie year? He was fire, crazy”

In this first year as a rookie, Hutchinson recorded 9.5 sacks and 34 solo tackles. He was the only rookie in NFL history to record at least 7.5 sacks, 2 fumble recoveries, and 3 interceptions in a single season.

“I locked his a** up, but—in Detroit, in Detroit—he was fire, bro. I don’t want to play him again. Never want to see that kid again, ever. I’m happy I never played him again”

Armstead seems content with his retired life now that he doesn’t have to play the big younger players, as the NFL players are seemingly bigger than his playing days.

However, he did manage to contain Hutchinson to just one tackle, three pressures, and a 57.3 PFF grade in that first game.

A hunt for Aidan Hutchinson’s partner is ongoing

While Hutchinson remains crucial for the Lions’ defense, they need a partner who can complement him. The top contenders right now seem to be Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders and Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals.

Maxx Crosby was placed on the injured reserve ahead of the final two games of last season after he suffered a knee injury in a game against the Chiefs. This has led to some rift between the star edge rusher and the Raiders, and the Lions could look to swoop in here.

Trey Hendrickson has also been facing contract issues with the Bengals and is a free agent this offseason. He earned a Pro Bowl selection for four consecutive seasons from 2021 to 2024.

A left-field choice would be Joey Bosa from the Buffalo Bills, who can be a short-term solution to fill the gap.

Who do you think is the best partner available for Hutchinson? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Shyam Hari

Edited by

Kalp Thaker