Today was deadline for franchise players in the NFL to sign long term extensions with their respective teams. High profiled franchised players like Von Miller of the Broncos and Mo Wilkerson of the Jets signed extensions. Chiefs free safety Eric Berry however did not. Here’s our breakdown of the four top stories of the day in the NFL.
1st Down: It’s Miller Time in Denver: The Denver Broncos value talent and they are willing to pay for it. Outside linebacker Von Miller received the biggest contract for a defensive player in NFL history today signing a 6 year, $114 million dollar contract. $70 million of it is guaranteed.
Some people will question the commitment the Broncos made to Miller but trust me, he’s worth it. If you don’t think so, go back and watch the AFC Championship game and the Super Bowl and then come talk to me.
2nd Down: Big Mo Gets Paid in New York: The New York Jets shocked the football world late this afternoon when they signed defensive tackle Muhammad Wilkerson to a five year, $85 million dollar deal. It appeared the two sides were ready to move on but the Jets decided Wilkerson was worth paying. It’s a smart move. Wilkerson is unblockable at times and a force along the Jets front seven.
Wilkerson’s signing is a clear indication that the Jets will not offer Sheldon Richardson a long term deal next off-season.
3rd Down: No Berries on The Money Tree: The Kansas City Chiefs and Eric Berry could not come to terms on a long term deal before today’s 4 pm deadline. The Chiefs have already begun spinning it in the media but the fact of the matter is, they don’t want to commit to Berry long term and they are willing to let Berry hit the open market next off-season. Spare us the B.S Andy Reid and John Dorsey. You don’t see Berry in your future plans.
4th Down: Here’s the Other Guys Who Didn’t Get Paid: Alshon Jeffery, Kirk Cousins and Trumaine Johnson did not get the long term deals they were looking for. It’s not a total surprise that they didn’t get paid. The Bears have concerns about Jeffery’s health. The Redskins want to see Kirk Cousins do what he did last season again. I thought Trumaine Johnson would get paid after the Rams let Janoris Jenkins walk but he didn’t.