Detroit Lions Focus on Aidan Hutchinson’s Contract Extension Amid Free Agency Plans
Lions Enter Crucial Offseason Phase
The Detroit Lions’ offseason is in full swing, with free agency approaching in March and the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon. As the team prepares to make key roster decisions, one of the biggest priorities is securing a contract extension for star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson.
Brad Holmes Confirms Contract Talks Are Underway
During the 2025 NFL Combine, Lions General Manager Brad Holmes confirmed that the organization is actively planning Hutchinson’s extension. This move signals the team’s commitment to locking in their top defensive talent before other major contracts around the league shift the market further.
Projected Contract Details for Hutchinson
Aidan Hutchinson is poised to become one of the highest-paid edge rushers in the league. Working with cap expert Joshua Quiepo, projections estimate his new deal could be worth approximately $110 million over four years. Key details of the contract projection include:
- Annual Pay Projection: $27.5 million
- Guaranteed Money: $82.5 million
- Fully Guaranteed: $60.5 million
- Potential Comparisons: Brian Burns (2024), Carlos Dunlap (2021), Myles Garrett (2020)
If finalized, this deal would put Hutchinson among the top five highest-paid edge rushers in the NFL. However, lingering concerns about his injury history may influence the final structure, potentially impacting the level of guarantees included in the contract.
Should Hutchinson Wait for a Bigger Payday?
Some analysts believe Hutchinson could maximize his earnings by delaying an extension and opting for the fifth-year option instead. If he dominates in the 2025 season and wins Defensive Player of the Year, he could command a record-breaking deal, potentially becoming the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league. However, the risk of injury or a dip in performance makes this a gamble.
Lions Aim to Finalize the Deal Before Market Changes
From Detroit’s perspective, securing Hutchinson now could be a strategic move to avoid even higher costs in the near future. Players like Micah Parsons and Myles Garrett could reset the edge rusher market soon, making it more expensive for the Lions to retain their star if they wait too long.
Impact on Free Agency and Roster Moves
Extending Hutchinson will have a financial impact, but not a massive one. The contract is expected to add around $3 million to the Lions’ salary cap in 2025, increasing his cap hit from $11 million to $14 million. While this won’t significantly limit their free agency flexibility, it may influence how they approach roster building.
Instead of aggressively pursuing a high-profile edge rusher in free agency, the Lions may opt to find additional pass-rushing help in the draft. This extension also makes a potential trade for Myles Garrett unlikely, as committing a massive salary to another edge rusher would strain Detroit’s cap situation.
What’s Next for the Lions and Hutchinson?
With free agency and the draft fast approaching, the Lions must decide whether to finalize Hutchinson’s deal now or let negotiations play out over the coming months. Regardless of the timing, Detroit’s focus on securing their defensive cornerstone indicates a strong belief in his long-term value.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on the Lions and how they balance their financial flexibility with their championship aspirations.
