By Blessing 
Lions Advised to Hold Off on Extending Hutchinson and Williams’ Contracts
The NFL offseason is always full of surprises, and the Detroit Lions are now being advised to hold off on contract extensions for two of their most promising players: Aidan Hutchinson and Jameson Williams.
With the offseason in full swing, speculation is growing about which Lions players will receive long-term deals to stay in Detroit. Among the key names in contract discussions are defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and wide receiver Jameson Williams. Both made significant contributions to the team, though Hutchinson’s season was cut short after Week 6 due to a broken left fibula.
Despite their talent and potential, analysts are suggesting that Detroit should wait before locking them into new deals.
Focus on Kerby Joseph Instead?
In a February 13 article for A to Z Sports, NFL analyst Mike Payton made the case for the Lions to prioritize safety Kerby Joseph’s extension over those of Hutchinson and Williams.
Before fans get too upset, Payton pointed out that this recommendation has a lot to do with timing. Since both Hutchinson and Williams were first-round draft picks, they are eligible for fifth-year options, which means Detroit isn’t under immediate pressure to extend them this year.
Payton explained that injuries and other factors play a role in the decision as well. “The likelihood is that both players are probably going to want to wait until next year anyway,” he noted, referencing Hutchinson’s injury and Williams’ previous suspension.
“That way they can have a good season and maximize their profits,” Payton added. “Right now the Lions would not be offering them top-dollar based on those factors.”
Essentially, waiting another season could allow both players to have stronger performances and, in turn, negotiate more lucrative contracts.
Why Extend Joseph Now?
While Hutchinson and Williams may have to wait, Payton believes Detroit should move quickly to extend Joseph. The safety had a stellar season in 2024, even earning votes for Defensive Player of the Year. Payton argued that the Lions could follow a similar strategy to last year when they got ahead of the market by securing key contracts for Penei Sewell, Jared Goff, and Amon-Ra St. Brown.
A potential market shift is another factor to consider. Baltimore Ravens star safety Kyle Hamilton is expected to sign a major extension soon, with many analysts predicting he could become the highest-paid safety in the league. If Detroit finalizes a deal with Joseph before that happens, they could save significant money by locking him in before salaries at his position skyrocket.
Impressive 2024 Stats
Looking at the numbers, Jameson Williams had a breakout 2024 season with 58 receptions, 1,001 yards, and eight touchdowns in 15 games. Hutchinson, despite missing time, managed 7.5 sacks, seven tackles for loss, and 45 quarterback pressures. Meanwhile, Joseph had an outstanding defensive season, racking up nine interceptions.
Lions’ Super Bowl Hopes for 2025
While it’s still early to predict next season’s Super Bowl contenders, some experts are already placing the Lions among the favorites. On February 14, NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks ranked Detroit as the No. 2 team most likely to make a Super Bowl run, just behind the Philadelphia Eagles.
Although losing offensive coordinator Ben.