Predicting Jonah Jackson's Lions Contract Extension

Evaluating what Jonah Jackson's next contract with the Lions should be.

The Detroit Lions will soon have to make a decision on the future of offensive guard Jonah Jackson. The 2020 third-round pick will be a free agent after the 2023 season. 

The Ohio State product has started 45 games over the past three seasons and figures to be a mainstay on the Lions' offensive line once again this year. He's been part of the reason why the team's front five has garnered so much praise over the last two seasons. 

Heading into his fourth professional season, the 26-year-old is in the market for an extension. He knows where he wants to be — Detroit.

"I'd love to retire a Lion," Jackson told reporters after minicamp Wednesday. "I love this city. I have a great time here, enjoy everything about it from the sports to the people, the cuisine, you know, there's nothing like it." 

Prior to 2022, he had missed just one game in his first two seasons. Last year, he dealt with multiple injuries that forced him to miss four games. 

The market for starting guards was recently set by the Atlanta Falcons, who gave Chris Lindstrom a five-year, $105 million contract extension. 

Comparing the two, they have been on similar trajectories. Lindstrom was a second-team All-Pro last season, while both players have each made one Pro Bowl appearance.

As a result, Jackson could command a similar contract while not receiving as extensive of a raise. 

"That's a pretty penny, what (Lindstrom) got, and a very deserving player," the Lions' guard said. "If it happens, it happens." 

He's had a very positive impact on the Lions throughout his tenure, helping revitalize a rushing attack that was successful a season ago. Jackson will have two new running backs to block for in 2023, with David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs joining the fold.

One factor that has limited Detroit's success up front has been injuries. Over the last two seasons, the presumed starting five has yet to play a single snap together. 

However, hopes are high that the team will be able to weather the storm at the position in 2023. 

At the conclusion of the season, Jackson should be worthy of an extension. The Lions drafted Colby Sorsdal in the fifth round of the 2023 Draft, but the depth at guard has been unsatisfactory in recent years. 

Logan Stenberg, another member of the 2020 Draft class, has struggled in his opportunities. Kayode Awosika and Ross Pierschbacher are veteran stop-gaps, but Jackson is much more proven. 

As a result, the Lions should commit to bringing the veteran back. While his production isn't exactly to the level of matching Lindstrom's extension, he should command a hefty extension somewhere in the range of four years, $75 million.