Brad Holmes: Lions, Aidan Hutchinson have started dialogue on second contract

Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson is in discussions for a contract extension with the team, according to General Manager Brad Holmes. Hutchinson, selected second overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, has been a key player for the Lions, despite missing the last 12 games of the 2024 season due to a broken leg. He has accumulated 9.5 sacks as a rookie, 11.5 sacks in 2023, and 7.5 sacks in 2024 over just five games. Holmes emphasized Hutchinson's importance to the team, noting that dialogue regarding his contract has started. The current top market value for edge rushers is $41 million per year, as set by T.J. Watt. Hutchinson, who was a Pro Bowler in 2023 and finished second in AP Defensive Rookie of the Year voting, has stated he is taking a "hands-off" approach to the negotiations.