With Wednesday’s contract extension for Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, the team has locked up yet another foundational piece of the organization. The following stars are now signed through the 2028 season: Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, Jameson Williams, Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, and Kerby Joseph.
But the Lions’ core of strong players runs much deeper than that. Detroit’s incredible 2023 draft class is eligible for extensions next offseason, and there are a few other players acquired via free agency (ie: D.J. Reader, Marcus Davenport, Amik Robertson, Alex Anzalone) who are on contracts that expire at the end of the season.
So today’s Question of the Day is:
Which Lions player should get the next contract extension?
My answer: Unfortunately for those up for free agency next year, I think it’s very possible that none of the four listed are back in 2026. The downside of having so many young, talented pieces is that you have to pay them all near the top of the market deals. To offset that, your free agency pieces often have to come from the bargain bin, and players like Robertson and Anzalone have likely priced themselves out.
So the conversation must turn to the 2023 NFL Draft class. Detroit’s top four picks that year should all get serious consideration for an extension, and there’s a good chance the Lions give them all a new deal before their contracts expire in 2027. But what is the order of prioritization between Jahmyr Gibbs, Jack Campbell, Sam LaPorta, and Brian Branch?
It’s a hard question to answer. Gibbs is the centerpiece of Detroit’s foundational run game. Campbell is the heart and voice of the defense. Branch may be the most talented player of the four, and his versatility makes him a moving chess piece. LaPorta is the rare combination of lethal weapon in the passing game and above-average blocking skills as an in-line tight end.
Ultimately, I think Campbell may be the most important piece for them to lock up, followed by Gibbs and Branch. LaPorta is an important piece, don’t get me wrong, but with so many mouths to feed on offense, I think he is the lowest priority of the four.
Who do you think should get the next, big Lions extension? Share your thoughts in the comment section at the bottom of the page.
