Hutchinson explained his specific face paint decision and why he only does it under one eye
18:25 ET, 20 Oct 2025
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Aidan Hutchinson explained why he does his face paint in a specific way(Image: Getty Images)
The Detroit Lions are enjoying a winning streak, with Jared Goff spearheading the offense and Aidan Hutchinson, a rising star, bolstering the defense.
Hutchinson, who was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Lions, has certainly lived up to expectations.
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The 25-year-old is often seen wreaking havoc on the field. However, he last year suffered a horrific leg injury, fracturing his tibia and fibula during a game against the Dallas Cowboys.
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Known not only for his fierce play but also for his distinctive face paint, Hutchinson explained the origin of his in-game attitude and unique look in 2023.
Speaking to Brad Galli at
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in late December 2023, Hutchinson shared his passion for the game. "I think a lot of it just comes from my love of the game," he said.
"I love being out here and just being able to impose my will on somebody. Like physically, not hurt somebody, but you can physically, you know, just you're physically punching guys essentially."
NFL: OCT 12 Lions at Chiefs
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Aidan Hutchinson has a very unique look among NFL players(Image: Getty)
He also described football as a "very interesting game" and spoke about how the atmosphere helps him get into the right mindset, which he compares to a past era. "And people love, people are like just eating their foods, watching us," he continued.
"And it kind of reminds me of like the Viking era almost.
"And like, I loved a lot of those TV shows and stuff. So I kind of, that's partly why I do the eye blacks. I try to embrace that, like that Viking mindset."
In an interview with Men's Health in September 2023, the Lions star delved deeper into his unique choice of having face paint under only one eye. "That helps me get into Viking mode," he revealed.
"I'm obsessed with the 'Vikings' series-basically anything having to do with Vikings going to war. Back in the day, I had long hair that I would braid, and people really thought I looked like a Viking. Those shows and the battle scenes get me amped.
"The ritual of putting that eye black on gets me ready for war. I flip a switch when I step on that field.
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"I like to think I'm a pretty nice guy in everyday life, but that guy is gone on the line. I'm a Viking. I'm relentless. There's nothing on my mind but running through the tackle in front of me. I feel like no one can stop me when I'm on that field, and that's the mentality you have to have."
Former Indianapolis Colts star Pat McAfee even commended Hutchinson's distinctive look, noting its uniqueness compared to other players in the league.
"Aidan Hutchinson's face paint is sweet.. I like the gimmick. Takes some touch to create each week... I love that," the ESPN star penned on X in 2023 after watching the star play.