The Detroit Lions are enjoying a phenomenal season, boasting a 10-1 record and comfortably leading the NFC North. With a well-constructed roster built by general manager Brad Holmes, the team is a serious contender for postseason success. As the Lions gear up to face the Chicago Bears on Thanksgiving Day in Week 13, fans eagerly anticipate several players earning Pro Bowl honors for their standout performances this season.
Pro Bowl voting opened earlier this week and will continue until December 23. Fans, NFL players, and coaches all contribute to the selection process, with fan votes accounting for one-third of the final decision. This year’s Pro Bowl festivities are scheduled to take place in Orlando, Florida, a week before Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. However, despite their stellar performances, two key Lions players—Aidan Hutchinson and Jameson Williams—will not be eligible for Pro Bowl recognition in 2025.
Aidan Hutchinson, one of the NFL’s most dominant edge rushers this season, is ineligible due to his placement on injured reserve. Before his season-ending leg injury, Hutchinson delivered a Defensive Player of the Year-caliber performance with 7.5 sacks and 45 quarterback pressures in just five games. Unfortunately, NFL rules state that players on injured reserve must appear in at least six games to qualify for Pro Bowl consideration.
Wide receiver Jameson Williams also finds himself disqualified, despite an electrifying season that has established him as one of the league’s most dangerous deep threats. Williams recorded 29 receptions for 602 yards and four touchdowns, averaging a remarkable 20.8 yards per catch. However, a two-game suspension in October for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing substances policy has rendered him ineligible for the honor.
Although their Pro Bowl chances are off the table, the future remains bright for both Hutchinson and Williams. Hutchinson has already demonstrated elite defensive capabilities, and Williams’ explosive playmaking ensures he’ll have ample opportunities for recognition in seasons to come. Both players remain critical to the Lions’ ultimate goal: reaching the Super Bowl.
Notably, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Hutchinson has a chance to return for the Super Bowl in February if the Lions make it to the NFC Championship. For these two stars, the Pro Bowl may be a missed opportunity, but the pursuit of a Lombardi Trophy far outweighs individual accolades.
