NFL Rumors: Alim McNeill, Lions Agree to 4-Year, $97M Contract Extension

Defensive lineman Alim McNeill has inked a new contract with the Detroit Lions.

Per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, McNeill signed a four-year deal worth $97 million with $55 million guaranteed. The contract puts him among the league's top-paid defensive linemen annually, with just three players making more per year.

McNeill's new contract comes amid woes for the Lions' defensive front. Star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson broke his leg on Sunday and Detroit placed him on injured reserve on Tuesday. The Lions also put defensive tackle Kyle Peko on injured reserve because of a torn pectoral muscle.

Earlier this season, starting defensive end Marcus Davenport tore his triceps and is now likely done for the year.

With those key players out, the Lions will lean heavily on McNeill, who is now motivated by a new contract.

The former third-round pick out of NC State has eight tackles, 2.5 sacks and a pass deflected through five games this season, recording a 79.8 PFF grade. He's coming off a season that saw him pick up 32 tackles, 10 quarterback hits and a career-high five sacks despite playing just 13 games while dealing with a knee injury.

With McNeill now signed to a new deal, the Lions are looking to continue their hot start to the season. Detroit is 4-1 through Week 6 and coming off a dominant 47-9 win over the Dallas Cowboys last week.

Up next, they'll take on their divisional rival Minnesota as they look to hand the Vikings their first loss of the season.