DeMarcus Lawrence Signs Huge New Deal

In an instant, the status of Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence changed dramatically.

Following a protracted stalemate, DeMarcus Lawrence has agreed to sign a new contract. It is a five year, $105 million extension with $65 million guaranteed.

This game-changing contract is the most guaranteed money ever for a non-quarterback, according to NFL.com.

The deal also includes the highest first year payout for a non-quarterback in NFL history. DeMarcus Lawrence now joins Aaron Donald and Khalil Mack as the only three defensive players averaging more than $20 million per season. Khalil Mack’s guaranteed $31 million deal in 2018 was the previous record for a defensive player.

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Lawrence played the 2018 season on the franchise tag. He will sign the new deal before the July 15 deadline, which would have activated a second tag.

The contract impasse was as a result of a dispute over when he would have labrum surgery. The Cowboys wanted him to have the operation before signing him. Meanwhile, Lawrence wanted to sign an extension before going under the knife.

He is now expected to sign the contract on Tuesday, and have the procedure in the middle of the week.

The 27 year old is entering his 6th NFL season. As well as that, he’s coming off consecutive Pro Bowl selections. He is a vital cog in the Cowboys team that ranked 7th in defense and 6th in scoring last year.

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Since 2017, he is tied for the fourth most sacks in the NFL with 25. He is also tied for 8th in tackles for loss (29) and tied for 7th in QB hits (49). Additionally, he is tied for sixth in forced fumbles with 6.

Lawrence has sacked the quarterback on 3.0% of pass rushes since 2017. This is the 4th highest rate among those with 500 + pass rushes.