Lions restructure two contracts: What salary cap flexibility means for Sam LaPorta, Brian Branch extensions
Just ahead of kicking off their 2026 campaign, the Detroit Lions restructured the agreements of offensive tackle Penei Sewell and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown to dramatically expand their payroll flexibility.
By shifting $26 million of St. Brown's base pay into a signing bonus, Detroit generated $20.8 million in room, while transforming $18.6 million of Sewell's compensation yielded an additional $14.8 million in relief.
The total payouts for both athletes remain intact across their deals, with St. Brown possessing three seasons and $88 million remaining with void periods through 2031, and Sewell carrying four seasons at $92 million alongside a 2030 void year.
These maneuvers elevate Detroit to $39.02 million in available 2026 cap reserves, trailing only the San Francisco 49ers' $48.97 million mark in the league, while positioning the franchise sixth overall for 2027. The newly unlocked resources furnish the organization with ample room to address defensive backfield holes or prioritize upcoming contract extensions for 2023 second-round selections Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch.
