The Detroit Lions made a savvy move when they extended Amon-Ra St. Brown's contract two years ago, and the decision keeps looking better with each passing season.
Initially, St. Brown's deal seemed like a significant investment, but as the wide receiver market continues to soar, it's proving to be a masterstroke by general manager Brad Holmes.
Recently, Jaxon Smith-Njigba of the Seattle Seahawks signed a blockbuster four-year, $168.6 million extension, with over $120 million guaranteed, averaging a hefty $42.15 million annually. This is the kind of money usually reserved for quarterbacks, illustrating just how much the market has evolved.
In contrast, St. Brown's four-year, $120 million contract, which includes $77 million in guarantees and averages $30 million per year, now appears to be a steal for the Lions. The foresight to lock him in early has paid off handsomely.
Timing played a role, as the Seahawks were just now able to extend Smith-Njigba, their first-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft. However, the Lions' proactive approach with St. Brown was undoubtedly strategic.
Although St. Brown briefly held the title of the highest-paid receiver, his salary was soon surpassed by others like Justin Jefferson, who inked a $140 million extension shortly after. CeeDee Lamb and Ja'Marr Chase also secured lucrative deals not long after.
Currently, St. Brown's $30 million salary ranks eighth among NFL wide receivers, trailing behind players like DK Metcalf, Garrett Wilson, and A.J.
Brown. As the market continues to climb, this gap is expected to widen even more.
With St. Brown under contract through 2028, the Lions have secured a key piece of their offense for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, Smith-Njigba's record-setting deal might soon be eclipsed, as the Dallas Cowboys face the task of negotiating with George Pickens, who will likely aim for a similar blockbuster contract.
As each new deal raises the bar, the Lions' decision to extend St. Brown early looks increasingly astute, positioning them well for the future.