The Detroit Lions continue to look like legitimate Super Bowl contenders after delivering a dominant 35-10 victory over the New England Patriots in Munich on Sunday. However, their latest win came with a potentially devastating setback as defensive star Aidan Hutchinson suffered a significant knee injury that could end his 2026 campaign.
According to NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo, Hutchinson is feared to have suffered a significant knee injury. The Lions do not expect good news after he hurt his right knee while celebrating an early sack. The incident also drew criticism from fans. One wrote, “I remember when high-fiving your teammates was considered adequate celebration. Nowadays, gone to a new and insane level.” Another commented, “Maybe stop doing that f***ing jump celebration. Play dumb games, win dumb prizes.”
#AidanHutchinson
Celebration injury after sack
By video, worry for right knee ACL tear
Would not be the first this way 🙏 pic.twitter.com/WpfujJpi51— David J. Chao – ProFootballDoc (@ProFootballDoc) November 15, 2026
Even without their defensive leader, Detroit showed why its offense can keep the team in the championship conversation. Jahmyr Gibbs powered the Lions with 252 scrimmage yards against New England. He recorded 153 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and seven receptions for 99 yards.
Quarterback Jared Goff also contributed 303 passing yards and three touchdowns, while Amon-Ra St. Brown finished with 98 receiving yards and two scores. Their combined production gives Detroit multiple ways to attack opposing defenses.
Hutchinson's absence will undoubtedly challenge Detroit's defensive depth, but Derrick Moore and D.J. Wonnum could have bigger responsibilities moving forward. Moore recorded two sacks against New England, offering an encouraging sign.
The Lions still have questions to answer defensively, but Jahmyr Gibbs' explosive performance and the offense's firepower give Detroit a foundation to remain in the Super Bowl conversation despite Aidan Hutchinson's injury.