Since the spring of 2024, the Detroit Lions have committed nearly $1 billion to signing nine key players, with the latest being a major extension for standout defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. Yet, in a testament to the organization’s drafting success, their most complex work may just be starting.
Following this season, four foundational players from the Lions’ exceptional 2023 draft class will be eligible for their first contract extensions: running back Jahmyr Gibbs, tight end Sam LaPorta, linebacker Jack Campbell, and safety Brian Branch. After successfully navigating a massive roster rebuild in recent years, the franchise now faces the challenge of keeping its homegrown core intact.
Securing Hutchinson with a four-year, $180 million extension, including $141 million guaranteed, was a strategic move to gain clarity on his contract figures and build in cap flexibility for the deals to come. Hutchinson’s contract follows recent extensions for quarterback Jared Goff, offensive tackle Penei Sewell, and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, among others.
The team’s plan is to retain as many of its key players as possible to keep its championship window open. The upcoming negotiations present unique challenges. Gibbs has established himself as one of the NFL’s elite running backs, a position teams are often hesitant to reward with top-tier contracts. The Lions control his rights through the 2026 season and have a fifth-year option for 2027, along with the franchise tag.
LaPorta, a second-round pick in 2023, does not have a fifth-year option and could reach free agency sooner. While the market for tight ends is often considered more manageable, his immediate impact will command a significant deal. The Lions also have a fifth-year option on Campbell, a respected linebacker whose position carries more cap-friendly salaries. Conversely, many league sources believe Branch, the team’s other 2023 second-round pick, is on a trajectory to become one of the highest-paid safeties in the NFL.
The Lions’ shrewd drafting has created the enviable problem of having a wealth of talent to re-sign. The better these players perform this season, the higher their asking price will be. Having already spent heavily to lock down its current stars, Detroit is preparing for the next round of negotiations that will push its total investment well over the $1 billion threshold.
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