The Detroit Lions made a key contract decision this week that has raised questions about their long-term plans. While one young star got clarity regarding his future with the franchise, another important player is in a tricky spot heading into the next phase.

The Lions picked up the fifth-year option for running back Jahmyr Gibbs but declined it for linebacker Jack Campbell on April 29. Lions and FOX 2 analyst Dan Miller mentioned the move was not about performance but more about how the league sets contract values.

Campbell’s fifth-year option would have cost $21.9 million. Since linebackers are primarily grouped with edge rushers, that number would have made him the highest-paid off-ball linebacker in the league.

On the other hand, Gibbs signed a cap-space friendly $14.3 million contract for one year. That gap made the decision easier for the front office, even though Campbell remains a key part in the team’s future.

In 2025, Campbell finished second in the NFL with 176 total tackles. He also recorded five sacks, nine tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, two recoveries, and four passes defended.

His 90.2 grade from Pro Football Focus ranked him second among the 88 linebackers in the league. These numbers indicate why Detroit still values him highly despite declining his option.

The concern now is not about talent but timing. The Lions need to avoid letting this situation drag out, which brings focus to a similar case from this free agency.

Lions Looks to Avoid Contract Issues Similar to Baltimore

Contract decisions like this are not new in the NFL. Teams have faced similar situations before, and one recent example shows what can go wrong if things are not handled on time.

The Baltimore Ravens dealt with a close situation involving Tyler Linderbaum. His fifth-year option came in at $23.4 million, which the team felt was too high for his position.

“It is our intention for him to remain a Raven long-term,” Ravens' general manager Eric DeCosta said during the situation.  

Despite that, no deal was reached before free agency. Linderbaum later signed a three-year, $81 million deal with the Las Vegas Raiders. The move left a major gap in Baltimore’s offensive line, something they are still trying to fix.

According to SideLionReport's Bo Underwood, the Detroit Lions should avoid a similar outcome with Campbell. The current rule system groups positions in a way that does not always match real market value, which creates problems.

Campbell’s role on defense makes him hard to replace. His presence helped shape the unit, and his rise played a part in the team moving on from veteran Alex Anzalone.

However, the Lions have a clear choice ahead. They must find a deal that works for both sides and keeps one of their key defenders in their roster. Avoiding delays could be the difference between keeping a core player and facing a problem later.

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Written by

Anjali Thakur

Edited by

Rishab Nandi