The 2023 NFL season was one of the most successful in Detroit Lions franchise history. Their 12 regular season victories tied for the most in a single season with the 1991 team. They also advanced to the NFC Championship for the first time since the 1991 season, which was also the last time they had won a playoff game at all.
Looking to build upon that positive momentum, the Lions are making sure to lock some of their key players into long-term extensions. The foundation of the franchise is going to be set for years to come, as two offensive stars reset the market for their respective positions.
The first deal that was announced was for star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. As shared by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, St. Brown and the Lions agreed to a four-year, $120 million deal with $77 million guaranteed.
The deal was done by Joby Branion of Vanguard Sports Group. The contract makes St. Brown the highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL. It was smart for the Lions to get this deal done now as the wide receiver market is going to boom with Justin Jefferson, Brandon Aiyuk, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins all in line for massive new contracts.
A fourth-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft out of USC, St. Brown has quickly cemented his status as one of the best wide receivers in the NFL. In three seasons, he has caught 315 passes for 3,588 yards and 21 touchdowns. St. Brown has added 20 rushes for 180 yards and one more score.
About two and a half hours later, another megadeal was announced by the Lions. This time, it was franchise tackle Penei Sewell who cashed in. The All-Pro tackle agreed to a four-year, $112 million extension, per Mike Garafolo of NFL Network.
The deal includes $85 million in guarantees and makes Sewell the highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL. His deal was completed by Justin Schulman and Joe Panos of Athletes First.
The No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft has quickly cemented himself as one of the best young linemen in the NFL. Getting a contract done now will help him and the Lions avoid any doubts about his future, as he is locked in as a cornerstone piece of the franchise moving forward.
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