March 5th Signings

As franchise tags were being applied to keep some players for hitting the free agent market, a number of players were getting full out contract extensions, allowing their team to use the franchise tag in other areas, or by-pas it’s use entirely. Let’s examine some of those signings shall we?

Robert Mathis

Shortly after the Colts designated Robert Mathis as their franchise player, the two sides agreed on a contract extension for the 9 nine year defensive end. Depending on which source you look at, the contract is agreed on already or minor terms are still being worked out. Either way, Mathis will be staying in Indianapolis for at least one more season (I’d say till he retires or can’t play anymore). This deal was extremely important for the Colts; even though it seems to go against everything they’ve been doing this offseason. This gives the Colts a great pair of pass rushers for the next season (most likely next couple of seasons). While Mathis isn’t close to the players that Dwight Freeney is, the two have had comparable sack numbers over the course of their careers (Mathis: 83.5 – Freeney: 102.5). The same can be said for the number of fumble they force (39-43). Together, they form perhaps the most dangerous pass rushing combination in the league, and a good base off which to build a defense, which always helps a young quarterback win games.

Arian Foster

Shortly after Marshawn Lynch agreed to terms on his deal with the Seahawks, Arian Foster followed suit. The Houston Texans signed Foster to a five year, 43.5 million dollar deal with 20.75 million guaranteed. The deal will pay Foster more per year than any of the franchised running backs and Marshawn Lynch. Should Foster play with the Texans through the entirety of this contract, he’d be reaching that (not so) magical 30 year-old mark. Considering that Foster missed three games this season and still rushed for 1200+ yards and ten touchdowns, this was clearly a good decision. Having Foster in the fold for the next few years will almost assure that the offense will be fine. Look for the Texans to try and re-sign Ben Tate in the near future as well, given how good he was when Foster wasn’t playing. The two can help each either stay healthy and have longer careers.

Steve Johnson

In spite of his occasional boneheaded decisions on celebrations, the Buffalo Bills signed receiver Stevie Johnson to a five-year 36.25 million dollar contract extension. Johnson has combined for 158 catches for 2,077 yards and 17 touchdowns the last two years after having only 12 catches for 112 yards and two touchdowns in his first two years. He’s established a good relationship with Ryan Fitzpatrick, whom the Bills signed to a contract extension midway through the 2011 season. This signing was important for the Bills, even though there has been baggage with Johnson. The simple fact is that Johnson is the best offensive weapon they’ve had in a while and letting him go in free agency was simply not an option. While he wouldn’t have been valued as highly as guys like Marques Colston or Vincent Jackson in free agency, the Bills have needed to establish so sort of continuity within their offense and having Fitzpatrick and Johnson there will help that while they build the rest of their team.

Jeremy Zuttah

The Buccaneers re-signed versatile offensive lineman Jeremy Zuttah to a four-year contract extension. Zuttah has started 44 of the 58 games he’s played in, starting at center and both guard positions, though mostly at left guard. With the financial terms not being disclosed at this time, it’s difficult to measure the kind of value they got for him, but I think this was a smart signing. At the very least, Zuttah is a lineman with experience at multiple positions and a familiarity with new Buccaneers head coach Greg Schiano. I think it’ll end up being more than just that. One of the keys to building a successful team has always been consistency on the offensive line. While some positions have been very up and down over the last few years, Zuttah has brought a calming force to the guard position opposite regular pro bowler Davin Joseph. With those two locked up for the next few years, the Bucs can focus on their other offensive problems.