Detroit Lions give versatile Quandre Diggs massive extension
The Detroit Lions must have liked what they saw from versatile defensive back Quandre Diggs last season, as they have now agreed to a three-year extension.
After being drafted in the sixth round of the 2015 NFL Draft out of Texas, defensive back Quandre Diggs has steadily improved during his first three seasons with the Detroit Lions. Last year, Diggs impressed during a five-game stretch where he was forced to play safety due to an injury suffered by starter Tavon Wilson.
While at safety, Diggs played surprisingly well racking up three interceptions and a forced fumble. It was an impressive performance from the 5-foot-9, 200-pound defensive back that previously played primarily in the slot. Diggs ended up recording career-highs in tackles (55), sacks (1.0), pass defends (9), and picks (3) in 2017.
Now, the former sixth-rounder is being rewarded for his stellar play as the Lions signed Diggs to a three-year, $20.4 million extension on Monday, making him a Lion until 2022. That according to NFL Insider Ian Rapoport.
It’s clear that new head coach Matt Patricia values Diggs and his versatility. Patricia’s multiple defense scheme requires players who possess position flex. And in that, Diggs is the poster child. But he simply refers to himself as just being a football player rather than versatile.
The 25-year old slot corner-turned-safety was entering the final year of his rookie deal in Detroit this season. But following Monday’s extension, Diggs is suddenly one of the highest paid players at his position.
According to Mlive.com, Digg’s estimated $6.8 million per season is fourth among the NFL’s top strong safeties and 12th highest among all safeties. That shows a lot of confidence in a player that only spent five games at the safety position last season. The Lions undoubtedly view him as a core player on this new defense.
Next. Top Five Video Game Detroit Lions of All Time. dark
I think the main point to gather from Quandre Diggs’ new extension is the fact the Detroit Lions know they need versatile players to make this new defensive scheme work in the Motor City. And they have recognized early on the importance of having a player like Diggs to aid in their plans.