As defensive end Ezekiel "Ziggy" Ansah prepares to play out the final two years of his rookie deal, the Detroit Lions will hope to keep the 26-year-old for many years after 2016.
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Ansah Comments on Contract
Thursday, May 5
Speaking to reporters Thursday, per Carlos Monarrez of the Detroit Free Press, Ansah said things have to be taken "step by step" and that he wants to "see how this season goes, and I'm just looking forward as far as having a great season for the team.”
Earlier this week, the Lions exercised the fifth-year option on Ansah's rookie deal that will pay him approximately $12.7 million in 2017, per ESPN.com's Michael Rothstein.
Considering the Lions have two years to evaluate Ansah before having to worry about him becoming a free agent, it's understandable why patience could end up being a virtue in any future discussions.
Ansah may also not be looking to get an extension done now with the hopes of increasing his value to earn a bigger deal in the next two years. It would be a risky strategy because of how quickly an injury can happen in the NFL, but it could pay off down the line.
Last year saw Ansah emerge as one of the NFL's premier pass-rushers. He recorded a career-high 14.5 sacks and four forced fumbles, as he played in his first Pro Bowl and was named to the All-Pro second team.
A native of Ghana, Ansah quickly became the face of Detroit's defense after Ndamukong Suh left for Miami as a free agent last year. He is a special talent who excels at a position every team needs stars at, so whenever he decides to open negotiations with the Lions, they will surely be happy to engage him.
