In a recent episode of the St. Brown podcast, Aidan Hutchinson, the Detroit Lions' standout defensive end, received some high praise from a legendary figure in the NFL trenches. Terron Armstead, the now-retired left tackle known for his time with the Saints and Dolphins, shared an amusing anecdote about his retirement, joking that Jared Verse's athletic prowess pushed him to hang up his cleats in 2025.
Armstead, reflecting on the increasing size and athleticism of players, took a moment to highlight Hutchinson's exceptional talent. He recalled their matchup in 2022 when the Dolphins faced the Lions.
“I played Aidan his rookie year, and he’s an alien, bro,” Armstead remarked. “I had no idea he was 6-foot-7.
I’m thinking he’s 6-3, 6-4. I see the kid, he’s like 6-9.
And with most rookies, I can change up sets, they can’t read it. Jump sets, all of that.
He’s seeing all of it. He was fire, bro.
His rookie year? He was fire, crazy."
Despite Armstead's success in containing Hutchinson during that game-holding him to just one tackle, three pressures, and a 57.3 PFF grade-his respect for Hutchinson's potential was evident. Armstead added, “I locked his ass up, but-in Detroit, in Detroit-he was fire, bro.
I don’t want to play him again. I never want to see that kid again, ever.
I’m happy I never played him (again).”
Armstead's acknowledgment of Hutchinson's talent speaks volumes about the young defensive end's abilities. Hutchinson has since blossomed into a formidable force, earning two Pro Bowl selections, racking up 43.0 sacks in 56 games, and finishing 2023 with the second-most pressures in the NFL, eventually leading the league in 2025.
The entire podcast episode is a treasure trove of insights, with Armstead also sharing his thoughts on Lions head coach Dan Campbell-a topic we'll delve into in another piece. For fans of the game, this conversation is a must-listen, offering a glimpse into the minds of those who have battled in the trenches.