5 Looming NFL Extension Candidates

Michael Ginnitti
Michael Ginnitti, Managing Editor & NFL/MLB ExpertOctober 07, 2024
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Brock Purdy (QB, 49ers)

I’ll eat it. I’ve prefaced the Brock Purdy era in SF as the first real potential “never-extend him” candidate. The 49ers have proven to be the ultimate plug-and-play offense for the past decade or so (to the extent that Jimmy Garoppolo was able to headline a near Super Bowl contending team).

But injuries, and a bit more parity in the league have brought the Niners back down to earth - with the exception of Purdy. These first 5 weeks have shown that Mr. Irrelevant is perfectly capable of putting a team on his back, and take on much more responsibility than he’s ever been asked to in recent years.

As of today, Purdy projects to a 4 year, $222M extension in our system, placing him as the 2nd highest average paid player in the league (Prescott, $60M), but 14th in terms of AAV percent of cap.

Drake London (WR, Falcons)

Now on his 3rd QB in 3 years, London has been able to maintain an above average level of production to start his NFL career - and could be poised for a full breakout by the end of 2024. He’ll become extension-eligible for the first time next spring, and should find himself in the conversation with Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and a few others who will be seeking big pay days.

The (barely) 23-year-old projects toward a 4 year, $90M extension in our system to date, but should see this rise mightily with continued production in 2024.

Trey Smith (G, Chiefs)

The Chiefs selected Smith in the 6th round back in 2021, but he’s quickly established himself as one of the best guards in football. With left guard Joe Thuney scheduled to enter a contract year in 2025, KC may be looking to shift Smith over to Mahomes’ blindside - furthering his value within the organization.

For now, the 25-year-old carries a healthy 4 year, $72 million valuation in our system, placing him within the Top 7 of average paid guards in football.

Aidan Hutchinson (DE, Lions)

The numbers are ridiculous. In 38 career games, Hutchinson has accounted for 119 tackles, 29 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, and 4 interceptions. He’s been as-advertised and then some, and he becomes extension-eligible for the first time next spring.

Mathematically speaking, he’s already a near $32M player in our system (4 years, $127M), but if the numbers continue on this pace through the end of 2024, Nick Bosa’s $34M, and Justin Jefferson’s $35M (highest average paid non-QB), are both very much in eyesight.

Christian Benford (CB, Bills)

One of the best kept defensive secrets in football, Benford is in the midst of putting together two of the better back-to-back seasons among active cornerbacks. The former 6th round pick is playing out his third season in Buffalo, making him extension-eligible for the first time after 2024.

Mathematically speaking, Benford (4 years, $98M projection) now joins Trent McDuffie, Derek Stingley Jr, & Sauce Gardner as cornerbacks who could reset this market in the coming months. Though it should be said: 6th round picks rarely swim with the big fish when it comes to rookie contract extensions. Don’t be surprised if Benford’s deal pales in comparison to these 1st rounders when it’s all said and done.


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