Detroit Lions Face Key Decisions on Aidan Hutchinson, Jameson Williams’ 5th-Year Options
With the 2025 NFL salary cap officially set at $279.2 million, teams around the league are finalizing their budgets for the future. For the Detroit Lions, one of the biggest financial decisions this offseason revolves around their 2022 first-round draft picks—Aidan Hutchinson and Jameson Williams. The Lions have until May 1 to decide whether to exercise the fifth-year options on their rookie contracts, securing them through the 2026 season.
Aidan Hutchinson’s Future: A No-Brainer?
There’s little doubt about Aidan Hutchinson’s value to the Lions. The No. 2 overall pick in 2022 has been a force on the defensive line, earning Pro Bowl honors while serving as a key leader in Detroit’s resurgence. However, keeping him under contract for 2026 comes at a hefty price. Because Hutchinson has one Pro Bowl selection, his fifth-year option is set at $19.87 million.
Detroit’s front office, led by GM Brad Holmes, likely sees Hutchinson as a foundational piece for years to come. Rather than simply picking up the option, the Lions may pursue a long-term extension that locks him in for the prime years of his career. Given the rising cost of elite pass rushers, securing Hutchinson on a multi-year deal now—before the market explodes—could be a wise move.
Jameson Williams: A High-Reward Gamble?
Unlike Hutchinson, Jameson Williams’ future in Detroit is less straightforward. The speedster wide receiver, drafted 12th overall in 2022, had a slow start to his career due to injuries and limited playing time. However, he finally broke out in 2024, surpassing 1,000 yards receiving and proving he can be a dynamic playmaker.
His fifth-year option is significantly cheaper than Hutchinson’s at $15.49 million, as he has yet to make a Pro Bowl or play enough snaps to qualify for a higher salary tier. On paper, keeping Williams for 2026 at that price seems like a smart move. The question for Detroit is whether they view him as a long-term WR1 alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown or if they’d rather explore an alternative path, such as a contract extension or even a trade.
What’s Next for the Lions?
The deadline for the fifth-year option decision is May 1, but the Lions may not wait until then to act. A Hutchinson extension could happen this offseason, while Williams’ situation may depend on how the market shakes out.
As Detroit builds for a Super Bowl run, every contract decision carries weight. Keeping their young stars is a priority, but managing the salary cap wisely is just as crucial. The coming months will reveal how Holmes and the front office navigate these pivotal choices.
