Aidan Hutchinson has quickly become one of the NFL’s top defensive players, and the Detroit Lions are expected to lock him into a long-term deal. But according to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, there might be a strategic “trick” to how the contract is structured if the team finalizes an extension soon.
Breer suggests Hutchinson’s new-money average per year will likely start in the $40 million range, putting him in elite company with Myles Garrett and Ja’Marr Chase. However, since Hutchinson is already owed $25.45 million over the next two years, a potential four-year, $160 million extension could be structured to spread out the financial hit. In that scenario, his deal would total six years and $185.45 million, averaging $30.9 million annually.
The Lions’ decision to draft Hutchinson second overall in 2022 has paid off, and despite suffering a season-ending injury last year, he remains a cornerstone of the defense. Detroit is in “win-now” mode, and locking in one of their best players early—rather than chasing expensive free agents—aligns with the front office’s strategy of building through the draft. With Hutchinson expected to be fully recovered by Week 1, fans are eager to see him return to form and help solidify the Lions’ championship aspirations.
Lions May Have a Contract ‘Trick’ Up Their Sleeve for Aidan Hutchinson
