The Detroit Lions were one of the greatest teams in the NFL last year, but their season was marred by defensive injuries. The Lions were still able to secure the NFC’s top seed, but their defensive woes caught up with them in the postseason. Detroit notably missed defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, who suffered a season-ending injury earlier in the season.
Lions supporters can’t wait to see Aidan Hutchinson return to the field next season, since he’ll be fully recovered from his injury by Week 1. Fans are also speculating how much Hutchinson will earn when he eventually gets a new contract. He has swiftly emerged as one of the NFL’s greatest defensive players.
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer was recently asked about Hutchinson’s paycheck, and he detailed what he expects to see in the future.
“I think that the new-money average per year on the new contract probably has to start with a ‘4′ now,” Albert Breer said in response to a fan. “We have two nonquarterbacks in that category with Cleveland Browns DE Myles Garrett and Cincinnati Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase. Houston Texans DE Danielle Hunter and Raiders DE Maxx Crosby, both just got nearly $36 million in new-money APY on new deals, too.”
If the Lions can finalize a deal quickly, Hutchinson’s extension could take a twist.
Losing Aidan Hutchinson last season was catastrophic for the Lions, but he will return. He should still be one of the top players in the NFL despite his injuries, and the Lions are eager to lock him in for the long haul.
