Lions agree to terms with OT Penei Sewell on four-year, $112 million contract extension

The Lions kept securing their key players a day before Detroit is set to host the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Lions and offensive tackle Penei Sewell have agreed to terms on a four-year, $112 million extension that includes $85 million guaranteed, keeping him under contract through the 2029 season after factoring in Sewell’s fifth-year option, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported, per sources informed of the situation.

The $28 million in new-money average over four years makes Sewell the highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL, besting Laremy Tunsil‘s $25 million per year mark.

The No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft, Sewell has been a stalwart in three seasons, missing just one start (Week 18, 2021) over that span. He displayed versatility during his rookie campaign, starting out the season at left tackle in place of an injured Taylor Decker. Sewell then shifted back to the right side where he’s been a rock and people-mover in the Lions’ offense.

The ex-Oregon athlete has secured successive Pro Bowl nominations and was named a 2023 first-team All-Pro.

As a team captain, Sewell exemplifies all the values held dear by Dan Campbell’s club. He’s a tough offensive tackle ready to do the grunt work to help the offense perform at its best. Sewell’s merciless approach on the field arguably makes him the top run-blocking tackle in the NFL, using his athleticism to cover open spaces when necessary. He’s also a reliable pass protector, having allowed only three sacks in the past two years, as reported by Pro Football Focus. In 2022, he made a significant career catch for nine yards, resulting in a crucial first down.

Sewell is the pivotal element in a Lions offense that seeks to relentlessly advance the ball against an opponent and strategically disorient them with play action.

Sewell’s huge paycheck serves as the newest indication that a sturdy right tackle can be just as vital as a left tackle in the current NFL landscape.

The Sewell extension came on the same day Detroit reached a massive pact with star receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. With the draft on tap, general manager Brad Holmes made a resounding statement that he’s willing to pay market-setting prices for franchise cornerstones.

The next big deal likely barreling down the Fisher Freeway in Detroit is quarterback Jared Goff‘s extension.