Detroit Lions star Aidan Hutchinson isn’t letting contract talks get in the way of his preparation for the upcoming season.
Speaking to reporters Thursday following a joint practice with the Houston Texans, Hutchinson said he’s taking a hands-off approach to negotiations for a new deal.
“I have a lot of people in my close circle that do deal with that,” Hutchinson said, via the Associated Press. “My main focus is out here playing football and playing the game I love.”
Hutchinson, the second overall pick in the 2022 draft, is healthy again after suffering a broken tibia and fibula last October in a game against the Dallas Cowboys.
Why is Aidan Hutchinson Seeking a New Contract?
Hutchinson was well on his way to another Pro Bowl appearance when he was injured. The star pass-rusher had 7.5 sacks in five games, giving him 28.5 sacks through his first three seasons.
Hutchinson was medically cleared in May and has looked healthy in training camp, easing concerns about his recovery from a significant injury.
The Lions have been cautious with Hutchinson, sitting him and most other starters in the first two preseason games. That isn’t expected to change when the preseason concludes Saturday against the Texans.
What Kind of Contract is Aidan Hutchinson Seeking?
While the Lions have already exercised Hutchinson’s $19.78 million option for next season, he is eligible for a new deal.
Based on how he’s performed, the 25-year-old Hutchinson stands to make a hefty payday. The market for premium edge rushers was reset in July when the Pittsburgh Steelers extended T.J. Watt for three years and $123 million, including $108 million guaranteed.
With Trey Hendrickson and Micah Parsons looking for new deals of their own, the price may only continue to go up.
What kind of money is Hutchinson seeking?
Lions general manager Brad Holmes said two weeks ago the team had yet to have “intense talks” with Hutchinson’s representatives on a new contract.
“We’ll definitely get some dialogue going soon,” Holmes said on the Costa and Jansen with Heather Show on 97.1. “All those things take time, especially the larger the deal is.”
The Lions kick off the regular season Sept. 7 at Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers.
