The Detroit Lions like what they see in rookie Erick Hunter, enough to give the undrafted rookie linebacker a significant financial commitment.
The Lions went to work quickly after the NFL draft, signing players to fill roster holes on both sides of the ball and work toward their 90-man roster for training camp. While most will face an uphill battle to make the final roster, Hunter could have an advantage after securing an unusually large contract from the team.
Lions Give Six Figures to Erick Hunter
NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero reported that the Lions quickly signed the Morgan State linebacker after the draft ended on Sunday. HBCU scout Gerald J. Huggins added that the Lions already gave Hunter a big contract.
“Erick Hunter signed a 3-year, $3,125,000 contract with the Detroit Lions, including a $25,000 signing bonus, $175,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $1,041,667,” Huggins shared in a post on X.
NFL.com draft expert Lance Zierlein wrote that Hunter was a productive linebacker in college, though has some work ahead if he wants to succeed at the NFL level.
“Hunterâs productive 2025 season featured 102 tackles, including 14 for loss and four sacks,” Zierlein wrote. “Heâs fast when he opens up and runs but can be a little leggy with his short-area movements. Hunterâs instincts and response quickness are a little below average and heâs not suited for third-down coverage duties at the next level. His athletic testing was outstanding and he can compete for a role on special teams, but heâll need to show he can handle backup linebacker duties to have a chance of sticking on a roster.”
Like HEAVY’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on HEAVY
The post Lions Make Big Financial Commitment to Land Athletic Rookie LB appeared first on HEAVY.