The Detroit Lions handled some important business during NFL Draft week, and surprisingly, it wasn’t even related to the draft.
While focused on the NFL Draft this week, the Detroit Lions’ most significant move had nothing to do with selecting players. After weeks of suspense surrounding whether they would exercise the fifth-year options on two fan favorites, the decision has finally been made—and it’s good news.
On Friday, April 25, the Detroit Lions shared a major announcement on social media, giving fans a reason to celebrate.
In two critical moves they absolutely had to make, the Lions secured two of their top players under contract through the 2026 season. Detroit officially exercised the fifth-year options for defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and wide receiver Jameson Williams, the team announced. That ensures both players remain on the roster for at least two more years.
NFL teams have until May 1 to make decisions on fifth-year options for first-round picks from the 2022 draft, and the Lions handled it just in time.
There are endless reasons why keeping Hutchinson and Williams was a no-brainer. Both have become key pillars of this Detroit squad’s identity.
The Lions selected Hutchinson with the No. 2 overall pick in 2022, and his debut season lived up to expectations. That year, he paced Detroit with 9.5 sacks, grabbed three interceptions, and finished as runner-up for Defensive Rookie of the Year. In 2023, Hutchinson raised the bar again, posting 11.5 sacks and helping the Lions capture their first NFC North title in 30 years. Hutchinson suffered a broken tibia late last year, ending his season, but he’s expected to return strong in 2025.
Detroit snagged Williams at No. 12 overall in 2022, despite him recovering from an ACL tear. General manager Brad Holmes took a chance, and it paid off. Williams broke out in 2024, hauling in 58 catches for 1,001 yards and scoring seven touchdowns.
Analyst Brad Berreman of SideLion Report noted in an April 25 article that, “Trade speculation had hovered around Williams recently, fueled by rumors from a national insider, despite Lions fans pointing blame elsewhere.”
“Holmes shut down talk of dealing Williams, as expected, on Thursday night,” Berreman continued. “Still, picking up his fifth-year option only ensures he’s on the roster through 2026. Discussions about an extension past that point are still on the table.”
At this year’s scouting combine, GM Brad Holmes revealed that talks with Hutchinson about a long-term extension had begun, but offered no major updates.
Asked about Hutchinson’s recovery and whether he’d be ready to go in 2025, Holmes said at the 2025 league meetings, “We can’t predict everything with certainty. But based on his running and movement so far, I’m feeling really confident about where he’ll be.
