Who Should I Start? Jermaine Johnson or Aidan Hutchinson

Wednesday, February 5, 3:14 PM

New York Jets linebacker Jermaine Johnson (Achilles) said he will be ready for OTAs this offseason following an Achilles tear in Week 2 of the 2024 campaign. "I'll be ready to go by OTAs," Johnson said. "I spoke to the doc on Saturday and he said everything looks perfect. He said that thing ain't re-tearing. Everything is looking good. The explosion is coming back. I'm excited." The 2022 first-round pick had a lackluster rookie season with just 2.5 sacks before posting 7.5 sacks in 2023. He was viewed as a potential breakout candidate heading into 2024 before his season ended in a flash. Johnson could start slow as he recovers from the major injury in 2025, but the 26-year-old could still pan out as a potential difference-maker for new head coach Aaron Glenn's defense.

Monday, December 9, 4:56 PM

FOX Sports' Jay Glazer said on Sunday that Detroit Lions star pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson (leg) has been doing some running on an underwater treadmill and can also walk without the assistance of a cane after breaking his leg back in Week 6 in the win over the Dallas Cowboys. If Hutchinson continues to progress in his rehab, there is hope that the Lions could have him available if they advance to the NFC Championship game. Initially, Hutchinson was hoping to maybe be ready if the Lions made it to the Super Bowl. The Lions will obviously need to still be alive in the playoffs for Hutchinson to have a shot at returning, but his potential return will also depend on how much time he's had to practice and get up to speed. Having Hutchinson back on the defensive line would be massive for the Lions defense after he racked up 19 sacks in the last two years.