On Monday, the Detroit Lions solidified their future by securing left tackle Taylor Decker with a lucrative three-year, $60 million contract extension. This strategic move reflects the team’s commitment to maintaining a strong offensive line. However, according to general manager Brad Holmes, the Lions are not finished investing in their core players and may have more contracts in the pipeline to further reinforce their roster.

In a recent interview on 97.1 The Ticket’s Costa & Jansen show, Holmes emphasized the team’s intention to negotiate a deal with defensive tackle Alim McNeill. The Lions view McNeill as a vital piece of their defensive lineup and are eager to engage in discussions to ensure he remains part of the team’s foundation.

“He’s another one that Dan (Campbell) and I have talked about,” Holmes stated. “He’s an essential part of our foundation.” McNeill was part of the Lions’ initial draft class, along with key players like Penei Sewell and Amon-Ra St. Brown, all of whom have played crucial roles in the team’s development. Holmes highlights the importance of securing these foundational players as they continue to build a competitive squad.

“Alim has shown remarkable growth in his performance. He approaches the game with professionalism and demonstrates exceptional talent,” Holmes noted. “It’s about time we start these discussions. We’ll initiate talks soon and aim to finalize a deal that reflects his contributions and potential.” This kind of commitment indicates the Lions’ long-term strategy to retain key players who can make a significant impact on their success.

McNeill is entering the final year of his rookie contract after three seasons of steady improvement, culminating in a breakout year last season. Despite missing four games due to injury, he recorded a career-high of 5.0 sacks, 10 quarterback hits, and 6 tackles for loss. His impressive PFF grade of 86.8 ranked him as one of the top interior defenders in the league, showcasing his potential to secure a substantial financial reward in the upcoming negotiations.

With the rising market for defensive tackles, McNeill’s future payday could be significant. This offseason alone, seven defensive tackles have landed contracts exceeding $20 million annually, including notable players like Chris Jones at $31.75M and Christian Wilkins at $27.5M. McNeill’s performance trajectory suggests he may soon join these ranks, making his contract negotiation a critical focus for the Lions.

However, McNeill remains focused on improving his game rather than dwelling on contract discussions. He is dedicated to training and delivering his best performance this season. “I told my agent not to bring it up,” McNeill explained. “I’m currently in training camp, and my priority is to play well. Winning is my main concern this year. Whatever happens with my contract will take care of itself later.”

Many analysts predict a breakout season for McNeill, especially now that he has been paired with veteran free agent signing DJ Reader. During the spring, McNeill expressed his excitement about their potential partnership, anticipating significant performance improvements. Although Reader is still recovering from an injury, McNeill is keen on learning from the seasoned player and integrating his techniques into his own game.

“I admire his aggression, his ability to engage with blockers, and his pass-rushing techniques; I’m trying to incorporate all of that into my own performance,” McNeill shared. “I’m constantly seeking advice from him. Every conversation is a learning opportunity to enhance my skills.” This mentorship could be crucial for McNeill’s development as he aims to elevate his game to new heights.

Whether the Lions and McNeill can finalize a contract before the season opener remains uncertain. Nevertheless, the team’s actions demonstrate their strong support for a player they clearly envision as part of their long-term plans. This commitment could play a pivotal role in both McNeill’s career and the Lions’ defensive strategy moving forward.