The Detroit Lions on Friday morning signed both running back Theo Riddick and punter Sam Martin to contract extensions.
Detroit Lions Sign Theo Riddick, Sam Martin To Contract Extension
#Lions & P Sam Martin have agreed in principle on a 4-year extension that makes him the third-highest paid punter, source said. A priority
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 9, 2016
According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Martin’s contract is worth a total of $13.6 million, with another $1 million available in incentives. With Martin making $3.4 million per year, he will become the third highest paid punter in the NFL, which will tie him with Andy Lee of the Carolina Panthers. Kansas City Chiefs punter, Dustin Colquit remains the highest paid punter in the league, making $3.75 million per year.
The Lions drafted Martin in the fifth-round of the 2013 NFL Draft out of Appalachian State. Martin has played in every game since being drafted by the Lions as a punter, kickoff specialist and a holder. In his four years with Detroit, he has punted 220 times with a career average of 46.4 yards per punt.
A couple of hours after the news broke of Martin’s extension, Rapoport reported that the Lions and Theo Riddick had come to terms on an extension.
The #Lions and RB Theo Riddick have agreed on a 3-year extension worth $12.75M, source said. DET doing WORK today.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 9, 2016
Riddick’s deal will pay him $4.25 million per year. Last season, Riddick was tied for first among NFL running backs with 80 receptions, while finishing second in receiving yards with 697. Both are Lions records among running backs. Riddick was less effective on the ground, however, rushing for only 143 yards on just 43 carries. Detroit will be going with their second year running back, Ameer Abdullah, as their lead back, but Riddick should be used on third down situations.
The Lion drafted Theo Riddick in the sixth-round of the 2013 NFL Draft out of Norte Dame.
