Dec

28

Sanders’ Big Hits Equal Big Payday

Posted by Stephen Rhodes under Indianapolis Colts, Off The Field News 

Indianapolis Colts safety Bob Sanders (21) celebrates with cornerback Marlin Jackson (28) after intercepting a pass.
Indianapolis Colts safety Bob Sanders is finally bearing fruit on his productivity; Michael Marot of the Associated Press reports that the 2-time Pro Bowler Friday signed a 5-year extension, a deal that will keep him in Indianapolis through 2012 and also make him one of the NFL’s highest paid safeties.

According to a source familiar with the negotiations, the deal is worth $37.5 million – including $20 million in guaranteed money. In the extension, Sanders’ annual salary of $7.5 million is nearly $1 million more than Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu, and the guaranteed money surpasses what Baltimore Ravens safety Ed Reed received in June 2006. Despite a denial by Colts spokesman Craig Kelley, Sanders told the AP that the deal was finalized on Friday.

This season Sanders staying healthy was a big deal as his presence on the field is a big reason the Colts passing defense is #1, and the Colts’ run defense has even improved under Sanders’ watch. Not including Week 17, Sanders has recorded 123 tackles, 2 1/2 sacks, 2 interceptions and 1 forced fumble. Stats aside, his presence just seems to make the defense that much better. And just the fact that he remained healthy – he only missed one game – only validates that. But equally as important, today’s signing will solidify what is already a pretty good Colts defense for the foreseeable future.


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Comments

2 Responses to “Sanders’ Big Hits Equal Big Payday”

  1. bernard on March 26th, 2009 4:53 pm

    was up I like that

  2. Indianapolis Colts 2009 Season Preview and Prediction: Coaching Staff, Offense, Defense, Special Teams Breakdown on September 2nd, 2009 9:19 am

    [...] * – Bob Sanders / Marlin Jackson photo credit: NFL Gridiron Gab [...]

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