Michigan defensive end Aidan Hutchinson is not only a Heisman Trophy finalist, but also projected to potentially be the No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick early next year. And as of now, the Detroit Lions happen to have the top spot in the draft order.
The Plymouth, MI native is currently in Houston for the announcement of the Lombardi Award on Wednesday night, and also has a chance to be taken by the local NFL franchise as the Houston Texans currently occupy the second spot in the order.
Hutchinson recorded 13.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, 15 tackles for loss and 55 tackles in 2021 for the Wolverines, and just helped them to the Big Ten Championship over Iowa this past weekend; he won MVP honors for his efforts during the game.
“When I got off the airplane, it felt right,” Hutchinson said during an appearance on ESPN 97.5 earlier today. “I can’t lie to you: Just the air, the atmosphere, the vibes, Houston is a good place to be. If they draft me, I’d love to play for the Texans.”
What about the Lions?
“It was hard being a Lions fan. The Lions have been struggling for a while,” Hutchinson said. “I actually grew up a Patriots fan with Tom Brady and stuff like that. So, I never really loved the Lions too much. But, hey, if they pick me, they’re getting it all.”
Hutchinson and the Wolverines are preparing to play Georgia in the Orange Bowl on New Year’s Eve at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
