A former Detroit Lions star has revealed why he refused a hometown discount. His decision dates back to his contract negotiations with the team.

Speaking to Business Insider recently, Ndamukong Suh explained what shaped his approach to contract talks. The Lions drafted him No. 2 overall in 2010, one spot behind Matthew Stafford.

Suh quickly became one of the NFL's top defensive players. However, he said he later learned that Detroit did not want him to earn more than its star quarterback.

“The ownership was like, ‘We can’t see you making more money than our star quarterback,’” Suh said.

The defensive tackle accepted the situation at the time. However, he also warned the Lions that it could affect their next negotiations.

“I will accept that I will not make more than your starting quarterback. [..] Just remember, in five years from now when we come back to negotiate, I’m going to not take a hometown discount,” Suh said.

Suh eventually left Detroit after five seasons and signed with the Miami Dolphins in 2015. He agreed to a six-year, $114 million contract with $60 million guaranteed.

Ndamukong Suh explains the importance of guaranteed money

Ndamukong Suh also stressed the importance of guaranteed money in NFL contracts.

He believes players should focus on the amount they are certain to receive. The total value of a deal does not tell the whole story. He pointed to the short average length of an NFL career. That makes guaranteed money especially important for players.

Suh's experience also shaped his approach to free agency. He wanted his next contract to reflect his value and provide financial security.

Written by

Sayantan

Edited by

Pratyay