Aidan Hutchinson is really a bright spot in the Detroit Lions’ defensive roster. He was the No. 2 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, and Lions fans were thrilled to see a hometown boy get drafted by the team. Hutchinson, of course, played for the University of Michigan before going pro.

Back during that 2022 draft, Hutchinson was thought to perhaps be the No. 1 overall pick. That would have him going to the Jacksonville Jaguars, who had the first pick in the draft that year. But, instead, Jacksonville went with Travon Walker, which left Hutchinson available for the Lions to pick him up as their initial pick, at No. 2.

Aidan Hutchinson: He’s Glad Jacksonville Jaguars Passed on Him

The Detroit Lions host the Jaguars this week, and during a press conference at practice (via Sports Illustrated), he said that he’s glad things worked out the way they did. He didn’t think twice about getting passed over by the Jaguars. Aidan Hutchinson and the Jacksonville Jaguars? Not a chance.

When asked about the Jacksonville Jaguars skipping him and if it bothered him, Hutchinson said, “Nope. I’m happy here. Very thankful. Very thankful. I mean, it all worked out. It was divine timing. The way things went were the way things were supposed to go.”

Meanwhile, Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson said that he was happy to go with Walker. But, he said Hutchinson had an incredible rookie season.

“Obviously a great player. Did our due diligence and really studied him and all the top EDGE rushers last year,” Pederson said regarding Hutchinson. “And, the way he came out and played obviously in our game and the way he, what 9.5 sacks last year? Just a great performance for a young player, and obviously, the sky’s the limit. He’s just going to continue to get better, and he really makes that defense a little more solid.”

I think it’s so fun to see a Michigan guy on the Detroit Lions team. Plus, the Lions need to build their defense, and Hutchinson is key to our success for the next few years. I hope the Lions keep him happy.