Jalen Reeves-Maybin is extending his second stay in Detroit.
The Lions have re-signed the linebacker and special teams Pro Bowler to a two-year, $7.5 million contract worth up to $8 million in incentives, per the NFL Network. It's a record-breaking deal for a special teams player, from the value of the contract to the $5.3 million guaranteed to the $2.5 million signing bonus.
Reeves-Maybin, 29, thrived in his return to the Lions after spending the 2022 season with the Texans. He led the NFL in special teams tackles and earned a bigger role on defense as the season went on. His athleticism allowed him to get after the quarterback, which Detroit's defense desperately needed, and make plays in coverage.
"I just try to make the most of my situations and try to be a good teammate, whatever role that is for the team," Reeves-Maybin said in December. "I don’t really care how many snaps. I just like playing and being a part of the team."
Reeves-Maybin spent the first five years of his career with the Lions after being drafted by the former regime. The new one was disappointed to see him go after the 2021 season, and eager to bring him back the following year.
And Reeves-Maybin is eager for what's next after playing meaningful games this season for the first time in his career.
"It keeps your football spirit high," he said. "You know you’re playing for something."