David Reginek-Imagn Images

Lions DE Aidan Hutchinson Awaiting Decision from NFL After J.J. McCarthy Incident

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Nov 2, 2025 2:32 PM ET

Aidan Hutchinson and the Detroit Lions looked to secure a second-straight win in Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season, taking on J.J. McCarthy and the Minnesota Vikings in an NFC North clash. The Lions are coming off a Week 8 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a game where Hutchinson recorded just two tackles, a pass deflection and a hit on the quarterback.

With 7:41 remaining in the second quarter of the Lions-Vikings game, McCarthy connected with wide receiver Justin Jefferson for a two-yard gain. As Hutchinson powered through left tackle Christian Darrisaw, he stuck out his leg in an attempt to bring down McCarthy, yet failed to complete the tackle. Still, the former Michigan defensive end was flagged for unnecessary roughness due to his leg whip, giving the Vikings 15 yards and a first down.

Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson looks on during an NFL gamePeter Casey-Imagn Images

With his tackle attempt on McCarthy, Hutchinson may have a fine coming his way. Normally in the NFL, players are fined up to $17,389 for a first leg whip offense, which can increase to $23,186 upon a second violation during the same season.

Through the first eight weeks of the 2025 season, the NFL has handed out five fines for a leg whip. In Week 1, Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet was charged $17,389. In Week 2, Dallas Cowboys tight end Brevy Spann-Ford ($5,370), Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James ($17,389) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers tackle Charlie Heck ($8,722) were all penalized. And in Week 6, Denver Broncos guard Dalton Risner was charged $7,431.

Aiden Hutchinson called for a leg whip. It does look like he was held and thrown a little into JJ pic.twitter.com/i1aTfHbHzz
— Rate the Refs (@Rate_the_Refs) November 2, 2025

Hutchinson has done well avoiding fines during his four-year career with the Lions. His only penalty from the NFL came in 2023, when he was fined $11,473 for an illegal hit to the head against the Carolina Panthers.

Following the Vikings matchup, Hutchinson and the Lions will hit the road in Week 10 to face the Washington Commanders.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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