Roy Lopez, now a defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions, has made a significant financial leap after transitioning from the Arizona Cardinals. The 27-year-old inked a one-year contract worth $4.65 million for the 2025 season, a notable increase from his previous annual earnings of slightly over $1 million in Arizona. In a rather timely move, Lopez also pocketed nearly $500,000 in a performance-based pay bonus from the Cardinals just before his departure, which highlights his impactful performance during the 2024 season.

This performance-based pay bonus system rewards players with lower base salaries for their on-field contributions, and Lopez's bonus would have ranked fourth among the Lions, indicating his substantial contributions. As he joins the Lions, expectations are high for Lopez to bolster the defensive line, bringing both experience and recent financial motivation to excel.