The Detroit Lions are on the brink of a pivotal moment as they approach the 2024 NFL season, with several key players poised for contract extensions. Among the notable talents in discussions for new deals are offensive standouts quarterback Jared Goff and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. Penei Sewell, another significant player from the 2021 Draft class, is also eligible for an extension, with the option to extend his contract for an additional year through the fifth-year option.
In the midst of these negotiations, Lions’ head coach Dan Campbell revealed at the NFL’s annual league meeting that the team has initiated extension talks with each of these players. The buzz around St. Brown’s potential extension suggests a lucrative deal in the vicinity of $26 to $28 million annually. Although details about Goff’s extension are sparse, the rising quarterback market hints at a substantial new contract for him.
Since joining the Lions in 2021, both St. Brown and Goff have been instrumental in revitalizing the team’s offense. Their dynamic partnership has been a key factor in propelling offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s squad to become one of the most formidable in the league. Over three NFL seasons, St. Brown has amassed an impressive 315 receptions for 3,588 yards and 21 touchdowns. Goff, with his consistent leadership, has started every game in the last two seasons, showcasing elite performance levels despite missing three games in the 2021 season.
The future of wide receiver Josh Reynolds with the Lions remains uncertain. Despite being a free agent and recently visiting Baltimore, Reynolds has not yet signed with any team. Coach Campbell confirmed that the Lions are still in communication with Reynolds, who was a crucial part of their passing attack in 2024, recording 40 catches for 608 yards and five touchdowns.
Detroit has already secured wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones, who joined the team through a trade deadline deal but only managed five receptions in eight regular-season games. The potential extensions for St. Brown and Goff raise questions about the impact on the team’s salary cap and Reynolds’ future with the team.
The Lions are also considering their options in the Draft, particularly looking to fill the gap for a true ‘X’ receiver. While St. Brown excels in the slot and Jameson Williams offers game-changing speed, the team lacks a prototypical X receiver known for winning contested catches. Reynolds has filled this role, among others, since joining the Lions midway through the 2021 season.
In preparation for the upcoming season, the Lions are planning joint practices with the Giants, following a successful collaboration last season at their Allen Park facility. Coach Campbell hinted at a possible return trip to New York for joint practices before their preseason matchup. This ongoing partnership, rooted in a pre-existing relationship between Campbell and New York Giants coach Brian Daboll from their time coaching together in Miami, underscores the competitive and collaborative spirit between the two teams.