The Detroit Lions celebrated a 35–10 win over the New England Patriots in Munich, extending their winning streak to five games. But the victory came with a major setback: defensive end Aidan Hutchinson will miss the rest of the season with a significant knee injury.
Hutchinson was hurt during New England’s opening drive. After recording a third-down sack of quarterback Drake Maye, he jumped to celebrate, and his right knee buckled as he landed. He walked off the field under his own power and went to the medical tent before heading to the locker room. The Lions soon ruled him out.
After the game, head coach Dan Campbell said the team would know more after returning to the United States. Imaging in Munich confirmed a serious injury, and reports later indicated that Hutchinson was done for the season. The specific diagnosis was not disclosed. During the game, injury analyst Dr. David Chao said a torn ACL was an immediate concern; a typical recovery from that injury takes nine to 12 months and could affect the start of next season.
The injury is a painful repeat for Hutchinson. In October 2024, he fractured his tibia and fibula while sacking Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. He missed the final 12 games of that season.
Hutchinson signed a four-year, $180 million contract extension last October, with $141 million guaranteed. The deal, which does not begin until next season, set a record for guaranteed money for a non-quarterback. He had six sacks through nine games this season after recording a career-high 14.5 sacks in 2025.
Detroit continued to pressure New England after Hutchinson left, adding four sacks. Rookie edge rusher Derrick Moore recorded two, and Campbell praised his progress after the game. The 2026 second-round pick has now registered a sack in consecutive games and is expected to take on a larger role.
The 7–2 Lions sit atop the NFC North and are set to host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Ford Field next Sunday.
