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Should the Lions Hold Off on Contract Extensions for Hutchinson and Williams?
As the NFL offseason heats up, contract discussions are becoming a major topic for the Detroit Lions. Two of the most high-profile names up for potential extensions are defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and wide receiver Jameson Williams. Both players made significant contributions to the Lions last season—though Hutchinson’s campaign was cut short by injury.
Despite their talent and potential, NFL analyst Mike Payton is urging Detroit to hold off on extending their contracts—for now. Instead, he believes the team should focus on securing safety Kerby Joseph with a long-term deal.
Timing Plays a Key Role
According to Payton, the Lions don’t need to rush into deals with Hutchinson and Williams. Since both were first-round draft picks, Detroit holds their fifth-year options, meaning the team has another year before a long-term extension becomes a pressing issue.
Beyond contract structure, Payton pointed out that both players had interruptions in their 2024 seasons—Hutchinson with a broken fibula and Williams with a suspension. From a business perspective, he suggested that both players may prefer to bet on themselves, have a strong 2025 season, and secure bigger paydays next year.
“That way they can have a good season and maximize their profits,” Payton stated. “Right now the Lions would not be offering them top-dollar based on those factors.”
Why Joseph Should Be the Priority
Unlike Hutchinson and Williams, Joseph is in a different position contract-wise. The standout safety had an exceptional 2024 season, racking up nine interceptions and earning All-Pro recognition.
Payton argues that extending Joseph now would be a smart financial move. He pointed to the Lions’ past strategy, where they secured long-term deals for Penei Sewell, Jared Goff, and Amon-Ra St. Brown before their market values skyrocketed.
A major reason for urgency? Baltimore Ravens star Kyle Hamilton is due for an extension this offseason, and analysts expect him to become the league’s highest-paid safety. If Detroit locks up Joseph before that deal is finalized, they could save millions in cap space.
The Lions’ Super Bowl Window
Detroit’s front office isn’t just thinking about individual contracts—they’re looking at the bigger picture. The team is in a prime position to compete for a Super Bowl, with NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks ranking them as the second-most likely NFC contender behind the Philadelphia Eagles.
With a new defensive coordinator in Kelvin Sheppard, the Lions could take another leap forward—especially if Hutchinson returns to full strength alongside defensive tackle Alim McNeill.
While Payton’s take might not sit well with some fans, his reasoning makes sense from a strategic standpoint. The Lions have the flexibility to wait on Hutchinson and Williams while ensuring a crucial piece like Joseph remains in Detroit for years to come.
In the ever-evolving NFL landscape, timing is everything—and Detroit may be playing the long game.