Detroit Lions superstar defensive end Aidan Hutchinson doesn't know a world in which John Cominsky isn't his NFL teammate.
Hutchinson joined the Lions in 2022 after being drafted No. 2 overall - the same year Cominsky signed with Detroit as a free agent after two seasons with the Atlanta Falcons.
But next season, Hutchinson won't have his fellow defensive line-mate around after Cominsky announced his shocking retirement from the NFL after missing the 2024 season with a torn MCL.
"After 6 years in the NFL, I am officially medically retiring," Cominsky posted on Instagram. "I am proud of the career I had, but have accumulated a combination of injuries that are overwhelming my desire to continue playing.
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"… Thank you to the Detroit Lions for grabbing me off waivers and giving me a second contract and allowing me to show what I can do as an NFL starter. Thank you to the front offices and coaches that helped build me up and believed in me.
"… Best of all, my marriage was strengthened and I had my two beautiful children. Each coming at perfect times in my career, bolstering me to the finish line. I walk away with my family in mind and therefore, have found peace in this difficult decision."
While all of Cominsky's teammates were presumably saddened by the news, it likely hits home more for Hutchinson, who lined up next to Cominsky on the defensive line for two of the last three seasons.
Hutchinson posted a heartfelt reply on Cominsky's Instagram post, letting his teammate and friend know that his absence will be felt.
"Gonna miss ya dude ," Hutchinson commented.
Hutchinson missed 12 games during the 2024 season after suffering a fractured tibia and fibula in a Week 6 win over the Dallas Cowboys. He led the NFL with 7.5 sacks at the time of his injury.
Cominsky ends his NFL career with 107 total tackles, 7.5 sacks, six passes defensed, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. He played in 57 career games and started 20 of the, 19 of which came with Detroit.
Related: Jared Goff's 6-Word Reaction to Lions Teammate's Sudden Retirement
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This story was originally published March 31, 2025 at 7:34 PM.