Eagles agree to 6-year extension with Fletcher Cox for reported $103 million
The Philadelphia Eagles are set to lock up defensive tackle Fletcher Cox on a six-year contract extension. ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the $63 million guaranteed part of the $103 million deal is the largest ever for a non-quarterback.
Cox, who was the 12th overall pick in 2012, was named to his first Pro Bowl in 2015 after setting career-highs in tackles (104) and sacks (9.5). He's totaled 22 sacks during his four-year career.
Cox, who had one season left on his previous deal, has been a cornerstone of the defensive line since he became a full-time starter in Week 8 of 2012. He has started all but one game since, piling up 49 consecutive starts – including the playoffs -- over the past three seasons.
Cox, who did not attend the team's organized offseason activities but returned to the teams last week, took to Twitter after the news was announced.
Thankful ... https://t.co/FuQXbWCafu
— fletcher cox (@fcoxx_91) June 13, 2016
The Eagles defense is looking to bounce back after a rough 2015, when it ranked 30th in the league in yards allowed with 6,426. The unit allowed 26.9 points per game, ranking 28th.
But with former coach Chip Kelly’s up-tempo offense now in San Francisco, the Eagles' defensive numbers is likely to improve. The offense should improve its time of possession, taking more time between plays. That should give the defense a breather, which could help its statistical output.
New deal a win-win for #Eagles and Fletcher Cox.@davespadaro: https://t.co/7uRzpAxoJd pic.twitter.com/pNPZdSBWww
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) June 13, 2016
"Fletcher is a special player who has not only the ability to be the kind of player that he has become but also the desire and the work ethic," Eagles defensive line coach Chris Wilson said, via the team’s website. "He is a great teammate with a high football IQ, and he does everything you could want as a defensive line coach. It's a pleasure coaching Fletcher."
