The big man on the Eagles defense just got a big pay day.
The Eagles and defensive tackle Fletcher Cox have agreed to a six-year, $103 million contract extension. $63 million of the contract is guaranteed. The extension will begin next season and last until the completion of the 2022 season.
Cox was a first-round pick of the Eagles in 2012, taken 12th overall, and has grown every season into one of the best linemen in the game.
2015 marked Cox's first Pro Bowl season and was a career year for him. He finished the season with 71 tackles, 9.5 sacks and three forced fumbles, all career highs.
In his career, Cox has 212 tackles, 22 sacks, five forced fumbles and six fumble recoveries, all in 63 games with the team.
Just a few days earlier, as Cox reported to Eagles mandatory minicamp, head coach Doug Pederson said he expected a new deal for Cox to be done by training camp in July and was eager to see negotiations reach their conclusions.
A deal like this does not come without some risk, as Cox now becomes one of the highest-paid defensive player on any NFL team. The new deal also features the most guaranteed money for any player in NFL history that played a position other than quarterback, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Once his new contract kicks in, he is expected to make upwards of $17 million per year.
Cox took to Twitter moments after the deal was announced, thanking the Eagles for the opportunity to remain with the franchise as part of the long-term future.
Thankful … https://t.co/FuQXbWCafu
— fletcher cox (@fcoxx_91) June 13, 2016
I would like to thank Mr.Lurie and the whole Eagles organization ….
— fletcher cox (@fcoxx_91) June 13, 2016
Kevin Durso is managing editor for Eagledelphia. Follow him on Twitter @Kevin_Durso.
