The Detroit Lions have decided to secure defensive tackle Alim McNeill with a long-term deal. “I’m thrilled for Mac; he truly deserves it,” said Lions coach Dan Campbell on Wednesday. “He’s a crucial part of our team.” McNeill has signed a four-year extension valued at $97 million, according to a source who wishes to remain unnamed since the specifics haven’t been disclosed.
The timing was surprising,” McNeill noted, admitting he didn’t expect a deal to materialize this week. With a 4-1 record, the Lions are preparing to take on the NFC North-leading Minnesota Vikings (5-0) this Sunday, an important matchup for both division standings and playoff aspirations. Last year, the Lions claimed the NFC North title, their first division win in three decades. McNeill joins quarterback Jared Goff, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, and offensive tackle Penei Sewell as players who have received contract extensions this season.
“He’s one of our cornerstones here,” Campbell stated. “Just like the other players we’ve signed.” Lions general manager Brad Holmes selected McNeill in the third round—No. 72 overall—in the 2021 draft from N.C. State, and he has since emerged as one of the league’s top defensive tackles.
McNeill tied his career high with two sacks during a 47-9 win against Dallas on Sunday. Last season, he recorded five sacks, the most by a Detroit interior defensive lineman since Ndamukong Suh had 8.5 sacks in 2014. With the current team situation, McNeill’s performance is crucial now more than ever. “We know we have to step up,” he remarked. Aidan Hutchinson was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday as he recovers from surgery for a broken leg, which is expected to keep him out for at least four months. Hutchinson currently leads the league with 7.5 sacks and has accumulated a total of 28.5 sacks over 39 games in more than two seasons.
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