Lions GM Martin Mayhew told reporters on Friday that he would like to re-sign TE Brandon Pettigrew and RB Joique Bell to long-term contract this offseason.
Mayhew mentioned that he expects to meet with the agent for Pettigrew in the coming weeks to discuss a long-term contract, per Tim Twentyman.
The Lions haven’t had any conversation with Pettigrew’s agent regarding a possibly extension up to this point.
Pettigrew, 28, is one of just three Lions players who will be free agents in the coming weeks. Detroit used the No. 20 overall pick on Pettigrew during the 2009 NFL draft, but he has yet to live up to his draft status.
Last year, he totaled 41 receptions for 416 yards and two touchdowns. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 55 tight end in the league out of 64 qualifying players, although he did prove to be an effective blocker.
As for Bell, Mayhew specifically mentioned that they will tender him, a restricted free agent, no matter what, but there is interest in signing him to a long-term extension, per Michael Rothstein.
Bell is one of the few Lions who have played for new head coach Jim Caldwell during his rookie season with the Indianapolis Colts, so that too is a plus for him moving forward.
In 2013, Bell totaled 650 yards rushing on 164 carries (3.9 YPC) and eight touchdowns for the Lions.
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