DETROIT -- "GRATITUDE" was embroidered in bold Honolulu blue and white letters on Aidan Hutchinson's black hat as he put pen to paper on a life-changing contract extension Oct. 29.
The Detroit Lions' star edge rusher expressed appreciation while surrounded by members of his inner circle, including his parents, Chris and Melissa Hutchinson, sisters Mia and Aria and the Hutchinson grandparents.
Inside the Meijer Performance Center, Hutchinson had just agreed to a four-year deal worth $180 million -- including $141 million in total guarantees, tops for all non-quarterbacks. The reward for an elite player at a premium position was secure, and deserved.