Lions president Tom Lewand told reporters on Monday that they are tabling contract talks with DT Ndamukong Suh until after the 2014 season, per Tim Twentyman.
- Lewand mentioned that he is still optimistic that they will be able to get a deal worked out.
- Lewand did not rule out the possibility of applying the franchise tag to Suh, despite the staggering cost.
It would run the Lions a staggering $26.7 million to franchise him Suh next year, so although they are hopeful to sign him to a long-term deal, it’s not going to be easy.
Lions new HC Jim Caldwell mentioned on Sunday that he remains confident that they will be able to sign Suh to a contract extension.
“Absolutely,” Caldwell said, via ESPN.com. “I’m always optimistic. I think you know me by now and I think without question they are working at it, and I think something will be done at the appropriate time.”
Suh, 27, entering the final year of his rookie deal and is in a great position to secure a huge contract extension that will once again set the bar even higher for the defensive tackle position. Suh stands to make $11.55 million for the 2014 season and has a massive cap figure of $22.4 million, so a new contract would easily offer them some cap relief.
Detroit has said previously that they are optimistic that a deal will eventually get done with Suh, but there has been little reported progress throughout the offseason.
Last year, 48 tackles, 5.5 sacks and a forced fumble for Detroit. Pro Football Focus had him rated as the No. 2 defensive tackle in the league last season.
We have Suh listed as the No. 2 player in our Top 25 – 2015 Free Agents List.
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