Aidan Hutchinson Believes Ahmed Hassanein’s Long-Awaited Lions Debut Is Near
Ahmed Hassanein’s regular season debut may be imminent.
Young pass rusher missed all of his rookie season last year with pectoral injury, has been on Lions 53-man roster after impressive preseason showing, however has been inactive every week thus far this season (first seven games).
Reason: Lions drafted Derrick Moore in second round 2026 NFL Draft, also picked up D.J. Wonnum in free agency, who has played well above expectations this season.
With Wonnum in concussion protocol after accidental friendly-fire hit from safety Brian Branch vs Vikings, and 1-6 Miami Dolphins coming up Sunday Week 9, now may be as good a time as any to unleash Hassanein.
Edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson was asked Tuesday per 97.1 The Ticket’s Will Burchfield what Lions do if Wonnum can’t clear protocol, and star pass rusher named Hassanein as candidate.
Quote: “If I was a betting man I’d say Ahmed’s probably getting his opportunity this week,” Hutchinson said Tuesday on 97.1 The Ticket. Hutchinson adds Hassanein is “itching” to play and “can’t wait” to get on field.
If preseason debut coming off lengthy injury recovery any indication, Lions should expect hot start. Going up against Bengals starters, Hassanein immediately made presence known with early sack of Joe Burrow, added second sack and forced fumble, four tackles. Also added five pressures in 21 pass-rushing snaps per PFF (via A to Z Sports Mike Payton), culminating 89.9 PFF grade — highest-graded player on Lions that day.
Didn’t add to sack totals remaining two preseason games, but still disruptive throughout — all without Hutchinson lining up other side, who draws plenty of attention away from partners.
Lions DE room: Hutchinson, Wonnum (concussion), Moore, Hassanein. If Hassanein brings same energy Sunday in Miami, strong pass rush may not skip beat if Wonnum misses time. Also first Egyptian-born player in NFL history — story adds to long-awaited debut narrative.
Mabel Joshua is the founder and lead editor of CelebrityTale.com with 4+ years covering celebrity news, entertainment trends and pop culture. She curates breaking stories with verified sources, focusing on real-time updates from Hollywood, music and lifestyle. When not reporting, she tracks emerging talents and viral moments across social platforms.
