Why the Lions Should Secure Aidan Hutchinson’s Future Now

Building for the Future
The Detroit Lions have made it a priority to lock in their key players before market values skyrocket. This proactive approach has already led to lucrative extensions for quarterback Jared Goff, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, and offensive tackles Penei Sewell and Taylor Decker. Now, with the 2022 draft class eligible for extensions, the Lions must turn their attention to star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson.

Hutchinson’s Rising Value
Hutchinson has quickly established himself as one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL. Before suffering a season-ending leg injury, he was on pace to break the single-season sack record and was playing at a Defensive Player of the Year level. His dominance has cemented him among the league’s elite defenders, making him a prime candidate for a massive payday.

The Cost of Waiting
The market for top-tier edge rushers is only getting more expensive. This offseason alone, stars like Maxx Crosby and Myles Garrett have signed lucrative deals, with Garrett resetting the market at $40 million per year. If the Lions wait too long, Hutchinson’s price tag could rise even higher, potentially straining future cap space.

A Smart Contract Strategy
By extending Hutchinson now, the Lions can structure his contract in a way that minimizes cap impact. With two years remaining on his rookie deal—including the team’s expected use of the fifth-year option—Detroit can roll those years into a longer-term extension.

For example, a four-year, $160 million extension would effectively become a six-year, $185.45 million deal when factoring in his existing contract. This structure would bring his average annual value down to $30.9 million per year, a much more manageable number compared to waiting and paying closer to $40 million annually.

Following a Proven Formula
The Lions have successfully used this approach before. Last season, they extended Penei Sewell while he was still under his rookie contract, creating a team-friendly deal that benefits both sides. Additionally, Detroit has been creative with contract structuring, using low base salaries early in the deal and spreading cap hits across multiple years.

Securing a Franchise Cornerstone
Hutchinson is more than just a dominant pass rusher—he’s a homegrown star and a leader on the Lions’ defense. By locking him in now, Detroit can solidify its defensive foundation for years to come while avoiding the pitfalls of an inflated future market.

With his potential, waiting is a risk the Lions can’t afford to take. Extending Hutchinson this offseason isn’t just a smart move—it’s a necessary one.