The Detroit Lions have made a major splash in the NFL free agency market, signing star offensive tackle Penei Sewell to a record-breaking contract extension. The four-year, $112 million deal, which includes $85 million in guaranteed money, is the largest ever given to an offensive lineman in NFL history, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Sewell, who was selected seventh overall by the Lions in the 2021 NFL Draft, has quickly established himself as one of the most dominant tackles in the league. He was named to the NFL’s All-Rookie Team in his first season and has been a Pro Bowl selection in each of the past two seasons. In 2023, Sewell was named an AP first-team All-Pro after helping lead the Lions to the NFC Championship Game.
The 23-year-old Sewell is considered one of the most talented young players in the NFL and is expected to be a cornerstone of the Lions’ offensive line for years to come. The Lions’ decision to invest heavily in Sewell sends a clear message that they are committed to building a championship-caliber team.
The contract extension is a major win for both Sewell and the Lions. Sewell gets the financial security he deserves as one of the league’s top players, while the Lions lock up a key piece of their young core. The deal also shows that the Lions are willing to spend big to keep their best players in Detroit.
