The Detroit Lions are committed to retaining their key young talents.

Defensive tackle Alim McNeill has joined the list of Lions players who have signed lengthy contracts to remain with the team.

According to McNeill’s agent, Mike McCartney, the Lions have finalized a four-year deal worth up to $97 million, with $55 million guaranteed, a detail confirmed by NFL insider Ian Rapoport and the Free Press.

Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 315 pounds, McNeill is entering his fourth season with the Lions after being selected in the third round of the 2021 NFL draft, marking the first draft under the guidance of general manager Brad Holmes.

McNeill made an immediate impact as a rookie, participating in all 17 games and starting six. In his second season, he was a starter in all 17 games. His third season in 2023 was a breakout year, as he showcased his ability to pressure quarterbacks effectively from his interior defensive spot.

In the previous year, McNeill recorded five sacks and six tackles for loss in just 13 games, proving to be a formidable asset alongside Aidan Hutchinson on the defensive line.

McNeill’s extension follows a trend for the Lions, indicating that the management prefers to proactively secure contracts rather than risking later negotiations and higher costs.

Since the conclusion of last season, the Lions have also re-signed Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, Taylor Decker, and David Montgomery, in addition to McNeill.

The news of McNeill’s contract comes shortly after Hutchinson suffered a broken left tibia and fibula during a tough matchup against the Cowboys, ending in a dominant 47-9 win for the Lions.