The Detroit Lions will open their 2026 campaign against the New Orleans Saints on September 13. Aidan Hutchinson will face a difficult assignment in the season opener.

The Lions star will line up across from second-year left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. The 22-year-old started all 17 games as a rookie, while Hutchinson recorded 14.5 sacks and 100 total pressures last season.

The Saints tackle knows the challenge ahead and spoke highly of Hutchinson when discussing the topic with reporters:

"Yeah, he's a great player. I mean, he can do it all. He can play the run; he can rush the passer, which is why he gets paid a lot of money. So yeah, he's a great player, and it's going to be a good matchup."

Banks will now get his chance to back up those words when the two meet Sunday.

Aidan Hutchinson presents a major challenge for Kelvin Banks Jr.

Aidan Hutchinson is coming off an All-Pro campaign.

He ranked among the NFL's top five in sacks, total pressures, QB hits, hurries, and forced fumbles. His battle with Kelvin Banks Jr. is one of the key matchups for Week 1.

Meanwhile, the Saints star started every game last season, and Hutchinson will provide a stern test of his ability to win against both the run and the pass.

For Detroit, this matchup offers an early chance to see Hutchinson set the tone. A strong performance could help the Lions put pressure on the Saints from the start.

Written by

Sayantan