Lions Secure Hutchinson, Williams, Add Tyleik Williams

The Detroit Lions have exercised fifth-year options on defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and wide receiver Jameson Williams, keeping both 2022 first-round picks under contract through the 2026 NFL season. Hutchinson, set to earn about $19.8 million, recorded 28.5 career sacks and had a strong start in 2024 before suffering a season-ending leg injury, but remains a key part of the defense and is a candidate for a contract extension. Williams, who will make $15.5 million, overcame early injuries and suspensions to post a breakout 2023 season with over 1,000 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, reinforcing the team's faith in his potential. The Lions' decision reflects efforts to manage salary cap pressures as they have already invested in other stars like Amon-Ra St. Brown. Detroit further strengthened its defense by selecting Tyleik Williams in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. These moves solidify the Lions' young core as they pursue a deeper playoff run.