The Dallas Cowboys signed running back Marion Barber and cornerback Terence Newman to long-term extensions yesterday, just in time to beat a deadline that would've changed how the money is spread over the salary cap.
It wasn't cheap, though, costing Jerry Jones roughly $95 million US.
At least he knows he'll have both players through 2014.
Newman's deal is a six-year extension to the final year left on his initial contract. It's worth more than $50 million, with a $12-million signing bonus and $22.5 million guaranteed over the first three years.
Barber, a restricted free agent, received a $45-million, seven-year contract that includes $16 million in guaranteed bonuses. It's worth $21 million over the first three years, all of which puts him in the salary range of LaDainian Tomlinson, Edgerrin James and Larry Johnson - heady stuff for a guy whose only career start came in his last game.
"He kept repeating the numbers over and over,"
agent Drew Rosenhaus said. "He sat there at least an extra 20 minutes after we got the deal done in a state of shock."
Barber led the NFC in rushing touchdowns two seasons ago, then made an even bigger impression on the club last season despite backing up Julius Jones. His powerful style has earned him the nickname "Marion the Barbarian" and made the Pro Bowler a fan favourite.
FALCONS SIGN QB RYAN
ATLANTA -- Matt Ryan signed a $72-million US, six-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons yesterday, ending concerns that prolonged negotiations could threaten his chance to become the starting QB as a rookie.
Ryan, the No. 3 overall pick in last month's draft out of Boston College, is guaranteed $34.75 million. His guaranteed money is $4.75 million more than that given to Jake Long, the No. 1 overall choice who also is represented by agent Tom Condon.
INDIANAPOLIS GETS BOWL
ATLANTA -- Indianapolis has been awarded the 2012 Super Bowl, the fourth time a cold-weather city will host the NFL's championship game.
The city was a runner-up last year to Dallas, but yesterday beat out Houston and Arizona for the game, which will be played Feb. 5, 2012.
RAMS NOT FOR SALE: OWNER
ST. LOUIS -- One of the new owners of the Rams says he has been approached by "several people"
about selling the team and there is "every intention"
of keeping the NFL team in St. Louis.
Chip Rosenbloom issued a statement yesterday, denying a report by Yahoo Sports that the team was on the market and being shopped for up to $900 million US, with a sale raising the possibility of a return to Los Angeles.
