Aidan Hutchinson leads 2026 NFL Defensive Player of the Year race
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 23, 2026, 12:44 AM
Last updated Sep 23, 2026
After Week 2 of the NFL season, Detroit Lions pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson stands out as a leading candidate for Defensive Player of the Year. He has recorded 3.0 sacks, 8 tackles, and 6 QB hits, maintaining strong performance metrics. Hutchinson is joined in the top rankings by T.J. Watt, while Will Anderson Jr. and Fred Warner follow. The Lions' defense has struggled early, conceding 71 points in two games. Looking ahead, Hutchinson will face off against the New York Jets, coached by his former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.
- •Hutchinson has 3.0 sacks and 6 QB hits in 2026.
- •He ranks first in pass rush grade according to PFF.
- •The Lions have allowed 71 points in two games.
- •Next, Hutchinson faces the New York Jets in Week 3.
- 12:44 AMYahoo Sports — Lions’ Aidan Hutchinson Emerges as Favorite for Major 2026 NFL Honor After Week 2
"Lions pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson has emerged as a top pick for big NFL honor following the end of the Week 2 The post Lions’ Aidan Hutchinson Emerges as Favorite for Major 2026 NFL Honor After Week 2 appeared first on HEAVY.
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