Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson is one of the highest-ranked edge rushers in the NFL, coming in at No. 7 on ESPN’s preseason tally. He’s the heart of the Detroit Lions’ defense and a proven leader.
It was never a matter of “if” but only “when” the Lions would sign Hutchinson to an extension to keep the Michigan product at the helm of their defense. Now, according to the player’s agency, Hutchinson and the Lions have agreed to a four-year, $180 million contract extension.
So, let’s go inside this new deal. This isn’t just any contract extension. It’s a special extension that puts Hutchinson in an elite spot in the NFL.
Inside Aidan Hutchinson and the Detroit Lions’ Story
The NFL Network reports that his new deal includes $180 million with $141 million guaranteed. That figure is historic, because the $141 million guaranteed marks the most ever for a non-quarterback. Also, Hutchinson’s $45 million per-year average puts him behind only Micah Parson’s new deal with the Green Bay Packers, which is $46.5 million per year.
The Detroit Lions picked up Hutchinson’s fifth-year option on his rookie deal, so the new four years will start after 2026. As the news broke, the Lions took to their X account to share a GIF of Hutchinson’s Michael Jackson-inspired rookie song and moves from HBO’s “Hard Knocks.”
Hutchinson has been one of the reasons the team’s defense has been able to thrive the past few years. The team drafted him No. 2 overall out of the University of Michigan back in 2022. Hutchinson leads the NFL with 48 pressures and posted a sack in five of the last six games, as well as a forced or recovered fumble in five consecutive games.
During the Detroit Lions’ game against the Kansas City Chiefs on October 12, the Lions took to social media to announce that Hutch had “set a single-season franchise record by producing 1.0 sack in five-straight games.” It’s figures like those that make it obvious that it was necessary to get Hutch back after his season-ending injury last year.
Aidan Hutchinson of the Detroit Lions and Hanes
Hutchinson stars in a funny and cozy ad campaign from Hanes, called “Never Uncomfortable,” which plays on those moments of embarrassment that everyone has experienced. In the “Never Uncomfortable” campaign, which has ad spots on Amazon Prime Thursday Night Football, Hutchinson is seen sharing uncomfortable situations but staying confident in his Hanes clothing.
Speaking exclusively with Anne Erickson of Heavy Sports, Hutchinson said that he really enjoyed doing the campaign. “For me, it was really exciting to partner with such a great brand that I’ve seen ads for my whole life, and to now be a part of their latest campaign was so fun,” he said.
Also speaking with Heavy Sports, Hutchinson raved about the Lions’ spirit this season. “This team is as strong as ever,” he said. “We’ve really stayed focused on the task at hand and been able to push through for some really great plays and wins. I’m excited to see where the rest of the season takes us. Everyone is feeling good but we know each week is a new week, and we’re getting ready for our next game.”
So, whether he’s in his Hanes or not, Hutchinson will be in the Motor City for years to come.
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This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
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