Finally, some good news for the New Orleans Saints. Chris Mortensen of ESPN reported on Friday afternoon that the Saints and six-time Pro Bowl quarterback Drew Brees have agreed to a five-year, $100 million deal, which makes him the highest paid player in the NFL.
All together, $60 million of the contract is guaranteed. Brees will make an astounding $40 million in the first year of the deal, and a total of $60 million, all of the guaranteed money, in the first three years of the contract. Additional financial details are expected to be revealed.
Earlier in the spring, the Saints tendered Brees a franchise tag offer, setting off a protracted, sometimes tense, back-and-forth between the two sides as Brees angled for a long-term contract. Monday, July 16, was the deadline for signing franchised players to a long-term extension.
Even at 32, Brees' numbers make it clear why he is now the league's highest paid player. He led the NFL with 5,476 passing yards last season, a new record, and 46 touchdowns. For a cool $60 million, the Saints have locked up the foundation of their offense for the next three years, while giving the team some flexibility in the final two years of the deal.
Brees announced the news himself via Twitter:
Deal is Done!Love you, Who Dat Nation. See you soon!
— Drew Brees (@drewbrees) July 13, 2012
For more on the Saints, check out Canal Street Chronicles.