Aidan Hutchinson discusses new contract extension and team support
Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson expressed gratitude for the support from the Ford family and team leadership in securing his new contract extension.
Hutchinson spoke about his new deal, which was a four-year, $180 million contract extension, on Thursday (Oct. 30), including $141 million in guaranteed money.
The extension made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the National Football League, while securing him through the 2030 season.
"Sheila (Ford), um, the Ford family, uh, Brad (Holmes), Dan (Campbell), Rod (Wood), I mean, all those guys, um, super instrumental in getting this deal done," said Hutchinson.
Hutchinson described his first four years with the Lions as a “really fun journey” and looks forward to continuing his career in Detroit.
Growing up in Plymouth and playing college football at the University of Michigan, Hutchinson said it was never a question of if he would be signed by the Lions but rather when.
Contract negotiations and motivation
Hutchinson acknowledged the complexities of contract negotiations but was relieved to have the deal finalized.
“You get that deep relief almost, you know, that those negotiations are over with and you can kind of really just put everything on this season,” Hutchinson said.
Hutchinson also highlighted the motivation that comes from seeing teammates rewarded.
“It shows Brad’s dedication to his draft class and the guys he believes are those pillars of the team,” Hutchinson said.
Hutchinson mentioned teammates Jared Goff, Kerby Joseph, and Penei Sewell as examples of foundational players who have also been rewarded.
Perspective on contract significance
When asked about being the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history by guarantees, Hutchinson downplayed the significance of the money itself.
“The money is really a byproduct,” Hutchinson said. “While a lot of those numbers are fun to look at and it’s cool and such a blessing, in order for me to keep putting one foot in front of the other and keep looking forward, I have to focus on my play and my evolution as a player.”
Support and focus after contract news
Hutchinson shared that congratulatory messages came from notable figures like Michael Strahan and J.J. Watt, but emphasized that life and practice continue as usual.
“You go in, you sign the contract, but then you wake up and it’s Thursday practice all over,” Hutchinson said.
Hutchinson’s focus remains on the upcoming game against his former Michigan Wolverines teammate, J.J. McCarthy, and the Minnesota Vikings inside Ford Field on Sunday at 1 p.m.
Thoughts on wealth and philanthropy
Regarding how he plans to use his new wealth, Hutchinson said he has not thought much about it yet but is considering expanding his philanthropic efforts through his Hutch Heroes initiative.
“A lot of that is like GoFundMe, we are raising awareness for a lot of these kids’ stories,” Hutchinson said.
Balancing contract process and performance
Hutchinson described how he stayed uninvolved in the contract negotiations to maintain focus on football.
“I really was letting my parents handle it, and with my agent all the communications,” Hutchinson said. “I really just kind of blocked it out until I needed to be involved.”
God’s plan
Hutchinson opened up about the role of faith in his recovery from last season’s injury.
Reflecting on the challenges he faced, Hutchinson said, “In those moments of the unknowing, you just have to rely on God’s plan and God’s journey for you.”
Hutchinson admitted the injury was unexpected and a difficult bump in the road.
“I wasn’t expecting to get hurt last year, and it happened,” Hutchinson said.
However, he sees the setback as a setup for a strong comeback this season.
Hutchinson also highlighted the positive impact the injury had on him off the field.
“I got to shine a light on a lot of cool kids that people got to see,” Hutchinson said, referring to his philanthropic efforts.
Looking back a year later, Hutchinson feels optimistic about his current position.
“It’s tons of silver linings that came from it, but in that moment, it’s really hard to see them,” Hutchinson said. “Now, I feel like I’m in a great spot.”
Outlook for team success
When asked about the Lions’ potential to make multiple Super Bowls, Hutchinson expressed strong confidence in the team’s core group.
“Everybody knows we have the pieces. We just got to go out there and do it,” Hutchinson said.
Hutchinson emphasized the combination of talent, coaching, and culture as key factors.
“We know we have the talent and we have the coaches to do it and the culture. I mean everything’s set and in place,” Hutchinson said.
Reflecting on last season, Hutchinson acknowledged the challenges but remained focused on the future.
“Last year was what it was, but this year that will always be the goal with this group,” Hutchinson said, underscoring the team’s commitment to big-picture success.
On comparing himself to peers
Hutchinson said he stopped watching other players a few years ago to focus on his own game.
“I just like to stay in my own bubble and put the blinders on and just try to be the best player I can be,” Hutchinson said.
Playing time and team expectations
Hutchinson acknowledged the physical demands of playing over 90% of snaps this season and said he communicates with the coaching staff about when he needs rest.
“If I feel like I can’t give it 100% on a certain play, I’ll sub myself out,” Hutchinson said.
Rivalry with Minnesota Vikings
When asked whether any Vikings players reached out after his contract news, Hutchinson joked that he had not received any texts from them.