Aidan Hutchinson injury update: Detroit gains key edge rusher back while secondary concerns surge ahead of Week 11

The Detroit Lions enter Week 11 with a mix of optimism and growing anxiety as they prepare for a nationally televised clash with the Philadelphia Eagles. While the return of star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson boosts Detroit’s confidence, a wave of secondary injuries is threatening to unravel the team’s defensive stability at the worst possible time.This matchup carries major playoff implications, and the Lions know that limiting Jalen Hurts and Philadelphia’s explosive receiving duo is critical. Hutchinson’s availability helps, but the mounting issues in the defensive backfield are the main concern this week and could play a major role in how Sunday night unfolds.

Lions Get Aidan Hutchinson back but secondary issues deepen before Eagles clash

Aidan Hutchinson’s full return to practice on Thursday delivered the good news Detroit desperately needed.

After sitting out Wednesday with an elbow issue, the star edge rusher was cleared to resume full work, signaling his readiness for Week 11. Hutchinson has been one of the driving forces behind Detroit’s top-tier pressure numbers, and his presence is essential to containing Hurts’ mobility and disrupting Philadelphia’s rhythm.

However, the Lions’ secondary is moving in the opposite direction. Cornerback Amik Robertson was added to the injury report with a hamstring problem, creating another major concern.

Robertson has frequently served as Detroit’s No. 1 corner due to injuries elsewhere, making his status crucial for a defense preparing to face AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith.Veteran corner DJ Reed, sidelined since Week 4 with a hamstring strain, practiced in a limited capacity for the second straight day, but the team has yet to decide whether to activate him for Sunday. Rookie Terrion Arnold remains in concussion protocol and hasn’t practiced all week, while safety Kerby Joseph is expected to miss his fourth straight game with a knee issue.

If Robertson is unavailable and Reed isn’t cleared, Detroit may be forced to rely on Rock Ya-Sin and Nick Whiteside against one of the NFL’s toughest passing attacks.Offensively, tight end Sam LaPorta missed his second consecutive practice with a back injury, creating uncertainty around one of Jared Goff’s most reliable weapons. The Lions also saw defensive tackle Pat O’Connor downgraded to a non-participant, while Taylor Decker, Penei Sewell, Marcus Davenport, Josh Paschal, Sione Vaki, and Brock Wright were limited. Malcolm Rodriguez and Graham Glasgow practiced fully, offering at least some stability heading into Sunday.

With so many moving pieces, the Lions’ depth and resilience will be tested as they aim to hold their ground in a crucial Week 11 showdown.More coverage in NFL:Justin Herbert’s brother Patrick Herbert to make NFL debut in Week 11; Herbert duo to face off in Chargers vs Jaguars clashMatthew Stafford and wife Kelly turn matchmakers for FOX Sports host Charissa Thompson and boyfriend Steven CundariBaylor Athletic Director Mack Rhoades on leave amid new allegations, steps down as College Football Playoff ChairRob Gronkowski shares fun banter with Robert Kraft after one-day Patriots contract ahead of Thursday Night Football