Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson is "fully cleared" to resume football activities following last year's season-ending leg injury, he told reporters Thursday.

"It feels like I'm back to being myself again," Hutchinson said as the Lions began OTAs. "I'm really looking forward to the season. I think this is the most excited I've been for OTAs in my life. This is the biggest hiatus I've had without playing ball."

Hutchinson underwent surgery in October to repair the fractured tibia and fibula he suffered during a blowout win over the Dallas Cowboys. The star pass-rusher was carted off with his leg in an air cast after sacking Dak Prescott in Hutchinson's final play of the 2024 season.

He was on pace for a career-best campaign with 7.5 sacks, seven tackles for loss, and 17 quarterback hits across his first five games. Hutchinson was selected to his first Pro Bowl the year prior after tallying 11.5 sacks.

Detroit exercised Hutchinson's fifth-year option earlier this offseason, keeping him under contract through the 2026 season.

The former second overall pick has 28.5 sacks and 30 tackles for loss in 39 career appearances for the Lions.