Detroit Lions to sign a contract extension with St. Brown’s agent during the NFL combine.
The Detroit Lions are eager to secure a contract extension for Amon-Ra St. Brown this offseason and are slated to engage in discussions with his representatives during the NFL combine this week.
While no agreement is imminent, the Lions have expressed their commitment to investing in their roster during this offseason. They recently signed linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin to a two-year extension, making him the highest-paid core special teams player in the NFL. Additionally, they prioritize finalizing a new deal with quarterback Jared Goff, and as they approach the 2024 league year, they anticipate having over $50 million in cap space.
Amon-Ra St. Brown, entering his fourth NFL season, is positioned for a multi-year extension that could elevate him among the highest-paid receivers in the league. His outstanding performance last season, where he tied for second in the NFL with 119 receptions and ranked third with 1,515 receiving yards, earning him first-team All-Pro honors, has emphasized his value.
While the top contracts for receivers have surged in recent years, with several averaging at least $20 million, the unexpected increase in the salary cap to $255.4 million and impending new deals for players like St. Brown could potentially reset the market this offseason.
Lions general manager Brad Holmes, addressing the team’s strategy, emphasized a preference for investing in their own players rather than extravagant spending on free agents. This sentiment aligns with the organization’s focus on developing drafted players and retaining them when eligible for re-signing.
Among other players eligible for extensions this offseason are 2021 draft picks Penei Sewell and Alim McNeill. Coach Dan Campbell holds St. Brown as an exemplar of the team’s values, highlighting his work ethic, dependability, and consistency on and off the field.
St. Brown, a fourth-round pick from USC in 2021, has established himself as one of the Lions’ hardest workers and most reliable players. Despite dealing with injuries, he played in 16 of a possible 17 games last season, leading the Lions in receptions and receiving yards for the third consecutive year.
The Lions retain their top three pass catchers from last season, including St. Brown, tight end Sam LaPorta, and running back Jahmyr Gibbs. However, there is a possibility of losing Josh Reynolds and Donovan People-Jones to free agency.
