Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press writes that the Lions can now shift their focus to DT Ndamukong Suh now that they are reportedly close to signing QB Matthew Stafford to a three-year extension.
- Birkett adds that Suh’s rookie contract will void following the 2014 season and carries a staggering cap figure of $21.4 million.
- Birkett also notes that applying the franchise tag to Suh would cost the Lions $25.7 million.
This essentially rules out any chance of the team using the tag following the 2014 season, so they will need to have a long-term deal in place before then to prevent him from fielding offers on the open market. Suh’s agent is likely well aware of this and could wait to see what happens with Geno Atkins and Henry Melton before discussing a long-term extension with Detroit.
Here’s a look at the contracts for two of the highest paid defensive tackles in the league.
- Gerald McCoy: five-years, $63.43 million, $35 million guaranteed. Signed in 2010.
- Haloti Ngata: five-years, $61 million, $37.1 million guaranteed. Signed in 2011.
Suh should have an opportunity to set the market depending on what happens Atkins and Melton.
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