The Detroit Lions face a significant decision regarding defensive tackle Alim McNeill’s future. With McNeill’s rookie contract set to expire after the 2024 season, he’s expected to be a key figure in the team’s roster decisions. According to Bleacher Report, McNeill could be looking at a substantial contract extension.
Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department recently projected that McNeill could secure a four-year extension worth $90 million. This projection places McNeill among the top potential free agents for 2025. His performance and value have been highlighted as particularly significant due to the scarcity of high-quality interior defenders.
McNeill, who is only 24 years old, has demonstrated his value on the field by effectively plugging gaps, stalling ball carriers, and applying pressure to quarterbacks. This makes him a highly sought-after player, especially as other top defensive tackles in the league are reaching the later stages of their careers, such as Cameron Heyward, Quinton Jefferson, and B.J. Hill.
However, McNeill’s ability to command such a high value will depend on his performance throughout the remainder of the season. He missed four games last year due to a knee injury, and maintaining his health will be crucial for maximizing his value. To secure a top-tier contract, he will need to build on his career achievements, which include 112 combined tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and 8 sacks over 47 games with the Lions.
The projections for McNeill’s next contract vary widely. On May 8, A to Z Sports’ Josh Queipo and Kyle Dediminicantanio estimated his worth at $72 million over four years. This figure is $4.5 million less per season compared to Bleacher Report’s projection. Meanwhile, Sports Illustrated’s Christian Booher offered a more conservative estimate, suggesting a three-year deal worth $51 million, which would translate to a lower average annual salary.
Given the variability in predictions, McNeill’s performance this fall will be pivotal. To achieve the highest possible contract, he will need to avoid missing games and continue to improve upon his best career numbers in sacks and quarterback hits. Last season, he recorded 5 sacks and 10 quarterback hits, and securing a Pro Bowl nomination or All-Pro consideration would further enhance his market value.
As the Lions prepare for the 2024 season, they are in a strong position regarding their salary cap. Currently, they have the fifth-most cap space with approximately $49.2 million available. The team has already committed significant contracts to key players such as quarterback Jared Goff, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, and offensive tackle Penei Sewell. These deals will start affecting the cap in 2025 and 2026.
In addition to McNeill, the Lions also need to address another significant contract decision: defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. Managing their salary cap effectively will be essential as they consider extensions and future spending. Despite these commitments, the Lions should have the flexibility to accommodate a deal for McNeill, even if it aligns with the higher end of the projections.
Looking ahead, Spotrac reports that the Lions are expected to be sixth in salary cap space for the 2025 season, with around $85.4 million available. This positions them well to handle McNeill’s potential contract extension while also planning for future roster moves and other key signings.
Ultimately, McNeill’s next contract will be influenced by his performance, health, and the Lions’ overall salary cap strategy. As the season progresses, both McNeill and the Lions will be closely watching how this pivotal decision unfolds.