The Detroit Lions are in full swing this offseason as we rapidly approach the beginning of free agency in March. With the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon, the Lions may start locking in extensions for some key players before that time.
We teamed up with cap expert Joshua Quiepo to project contract details for five Lions players. Here’s what we came up with:
Aidan Hutchinson
- APY Projection following 2023 season: $35 million
- APY Projection Current: $27.5 million
- Closest Comp (3-year sample): Brian Burns (2024), Carlos Dunlap (2021), Myles Garrett (2020)
- Average of those deals in today’s $: $24.75 million
- Projected Years: 4
- Projected Total Value: $110 million – $82.5 million guaranteed – $60.5 fully guaranteed
The injury history is something that will likely weigh on the minds of those writing the checks. It may not concern fans as much, but it’s a factor for the front office. Given this, it could make sense for Hutchinson to pass on an extension right now and instead opt for the fifth-year option. If he comes back in 2025 and delivers a Defensive Player of the Year season, Hutchinson could be in line for the highest-paid non-quarterback contract in 2026.
Jameson Williams
- APY Projection Current: $19 million
- Closest Comp (3-year sample): DJ Chark Jr. (2023), Rashard Higgins (2021), Breshad Perriman (2021)
- Average of those deals in today’s $: $4.25 million
- Closest Comp (platform year): Chris Godwin (2021), DJ Moore (2023), Will Fuller (2021)
- Average of those deals in today’s $: $20.33 million
- Projected Years: 3
- Projected Total Value: $57 million – $36.5 million guaranteed – $26.5 fully guaranteed
While Williams had a standout 2024 season, surpassing 1,000 yards for the first time in his career, there are still concerns over his past suspensions and injuries. It would be wise for both sides to agree on the fifth-year option for now. A solid, drama-free 2025 season could then set Williams up to earn his highest paycheck yet.
Kerby Joseph
- APY Projection Current: $20.5 million
- Closest Comp (3-year sample): Tyrann Mathieu (2022), Kevin Byard (2024), Kevin Byard (2023)
- Average of those deals in today’s $: $11.75 million
- Projected Years: 4
- Projected Total Value: $82 million – $46 million guaranteed – $40 million fully guaranteed
This could be the most likely extension the Lions pursue this offseason. Joseph is coming off an All-Pro season and was arguably snubbed for both Defensive Player of the Year and a Pro Bowl nomination. Regardless, his performance on the field ensures he won’t be overlooked when it comes to a big payday.
Alex Anzalone
- APY Projection Current: $9 million
- Closest Comp (3-year sample): Tremaine Edmunds (2023), Eric Kendricks (2024), Nigel Bradham (2020)
- Average of those deals in today’s $: $9 million
- Projected Years: 1
- Projected Total Value: $9 million – $7.5 million guaranteed – $7.5 million fully guaranteed
The issue with Anzalone’s contract is that there are no remaining guarantees, which could cause some nervousness about potential injuries. However, given his significant role on the defense, a new deal could make sense for both sides to ensure stability.
Amik Robertson
- APY Projection Current: $5.5 million
- Closest Comp (3-year sample): Bradley Roby (2023), Kristian Fulton (2024), Tre Herndon (2023)
- Average of those deals in today’s $: $2.65 million
- Closest Comp (platform year): Bradley Roby (2020), Rasul Douglas (2022), Daryl Worley (2020)
- Average of those deals in today’s $: $9.33 million
- Projected Years: 2
- Projected Total Value: $11 million – $5 million guaranteed – $5 million fully guaranteed
This extension is perhaps the least likely of the bunch, as much will depend on what happens with Carlton Davis‘ situation.
We’ll continue to monitor the developments around these key players and bring updates as the offseason unfolds.
