Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes shared updates regarding contract extension plans for key players like Aidan Hutchinson and Kerby Joseph.

As the Lions prepare for the offseason, one of the front office’s top priorities will be retaining or extending their own players.

Detroit has consistently focused on rewarding its core talent, and with six All-Pro players on the roster, the team must strike a balance between retaining key contributors and maintaining enough salary cap flexibility to manage the rest of the roster.

This offseason presents several challenges for GM Brad Holmes, particularly in deciding how to handle free agents and potential contract extensions for key players. Holmes discussed some of the specific cases in detail.

Zeitler, one of the Lions’ top free-agent acquisitions last offseason, played a critical role in stabilizing the offensive line after Jonah Jackson departed in free agency.

The 34-year-old right guard adjusted well to the team’s new system and helped keep Detroit’s offensive line performing at a high level.

“I thought Zeitler did a good job this year,” Holmes said.

“When you’re adjusting to a completely new scheme, it takes time, but once he adapted, I thought he performed really well.”

Now approaching his 14th NFL season and entering free agency, Zeitler’s future in the league is uncertain.

Holmes confirmed initial conversations have taken place but noted that discussions are still in the early stages.

“With a player of his age, it’s important to have those discussions,” Holmes said. “We spoke on exit day, and we’ll continue to have conversations to see how things develop.”

Another notable offseason signing was cornerback Carlton Davis, who was brought in to serve as Detroit’s top cornerback.

Unfortunately, Davis ended the season on injured reserve after suffering a jaw fracture in Week 15.

Despite this setback, Holmes praised Davis for exceeding expectations.

“He played very well for us. Honestly, I think he had a better season than his last year in Tampa, and he’d agree with that,” Holmes said.

As with Zeitler, contract talks with Davis are not yet a priority. “There’s no immediate action on that front, but we’re aware of it and will follow our normal process,” Holmes explained.

In 2025, Aidan Hutchinson will enter the final year of his rookie contract, with the Lions holding a fifth-year option for 2026. The decision to exercise that option must be made by May 1.

The Lions have historically been proactive with extensions, signing Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Penei Sewell early last offseason.

However, Holmes emphasized that these decisions also depend on the player’s side of the negotiations.

“We’re evaluating all of that. It’s not entirely in our hands; it takes both sides to finalize a deal,” Holmes said.

“That’s not a criticism—just an acknowledgment that we don’t always know the player’s or their camp’s perspective. We haven’t entered deep discussions yet.”

Another player expected to be part of extension talks is Lions safety Kerby Joseph, who led the NFL in interceptions in 2024. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, Joseph is poised for a significant pay increase.

Holmes, while reiterating that discussions are still in the early stages, emphasized how valuable Joseph is to the team.

“He’s an All-Pro player who has continued to improve,” Holmes said. “He’s proven he embodies what it means to be a Detroit Lion and fits perfectly into our culture.

Ballhawk safeties who can tackle like him are rare, and that’s what makes him special. While we haven’t started serious negotiations, it’s clear we want to keep our best players here.”