Fletcher Cox Signs Historic Extension

Fletcher Cox and the Philadelphia Eagles have agreed to a monster contract extension that will tie the fearsome defensive lineman to Philly through the 2022 season. Cox signed a six-year extension worth $103 million, including $63 million in guaranteed money, according to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter. The new deal will earn Cox the highest guaranteed payout for a non-quarterback in NFL history.

With a Pro Bowl and two second-team All-Pro selections already to his name, it’s tough to argue the 25-year-old DT didn’t earn every cent of his new contract. Playing a position not typically known for “glamour stats” like sacks or interceptions, Cox developed into a malleable, disruptive and high-energy force on Philly’s D-line through his first three seasons.

His 12.5 sacks were deceptively low given the amount of attention he demanded on both passing and rushing downs. Last offseason, the Eagles’ front office had seen enough, and was convinced to exercise the fifth-year option on Cox’s contract, keeping him in midnight green until at least the end of 2016.

Their faith was well placed, as Cox went from a high-ceiling youngster to an elite talent last season. His 9.5 sacks and 3 forced fumbles practically matched the production of his three previous seasons combined, while continuing to trouble opposing blockers in myriad ways that will never show up on the stat sheet.

The news is somewhat concerning for the Denver Broncos, who have continued to play coy on the details of Von Miller’s impending extension. Cox is a top-tier talent who deserves to be paid more than handsomely, but he also isn’t a defending Super Bowl champion coming off the best game of his career.

When all the financials have finally been worked out, don’t be surprised to see Miller earning elite QB money by opening night 2016. Cox’s deal might have put the Broncos in a bind, but in an offseason filled with swerves and speculation, the Eagles are just happy to have their man locked down.