Lions make Jack Fox league's highest-paid punter

The Detroit Lions and punter Jack Fox reached a pivotal agreement Saturday, as the Pro Bowler inked a contract extension to make him the highest-paid punter in the NFL. The extension will keep Fox in Honolulu blue and silver through the 2026 season, and he will make $3.775 million per season on average, a far cry higher than the $900,000 he was making on his previous contract. 

“Jack has earned everything he has accomplished in his young career, and he sets a great example for his teammates with his professionalism and work ethic,” said Lions executive vice president and general manager Brad Holmes in a team-issued statement. “We are thrilled to have him as a leader on our team for years to come.”

After going undrafted out of Rice in 2019, Fox had a quick stint on the Kansas City Chiefs practice squad before finding his home as a Lion in 2020. He made his presence felt instantly by setting franchise records for gross punting average (49.1 yards) and net punting average (44.8) that season, which was more than enough to land him a spot in the Pro Bowl as well as Second-Team AP All-Pro honors. 

Since arriving in Detroit, Fox leads all punters in gross punting average. He has also completed three passes on trick plays in just four attempts. A steady model of consistency for the Lions throughout a tumultuous three-season stretch, Fox will now earn the money to reflect his level of play.

Fox and the Lions (1-4) will be back in action Sunday following their bye week as they take on the Dallas Cowboys (4-2) in Arlington.