Brandon Pettigrew has been re-signed by the Lions. (Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports)
The Detroit Lions re-signed tight end Brandon Pettigrew to a four-year, $16 million contract Friday with half of the money guaranteed, according to the Associated Press.
Pettigrew had an off year in 2013, making 41 catches for 416 yards with two touchdowns, his lowest numbers in each category since his rookie season in 2009.
Pettigrew said he wanted to stay with the Lions because he is in “a groove” with his teammates, including quarterback Matthew Stafford.
“We got drafted together,” he said. “We’ve already got that going, and I think that’s important. I love the city. I’m grateful for being able to be here. The city is going through change, as is the organization. It’s just an honor to be a part of that.”
Before re-signing, Pettigrew tested the free-agent market.
“Of course, the pursuits were real because that’s just part of the business,” he said.
The former first-round draft pick has 284 receptions for 2,828 yards with 16 touchdowns. His best season came in 2011, when he had career-highs with 83 catches, 777 yards and five TDs. The Lions also made the playoffs for the first time in 11 years that season.
