Seattle signs Earl Thomas to huge contract

[run pMc]

$40M extension -- that's a good if pricey contract for both sides. Thomas is one of the better safeties in the league. Since it's an extension (contract was up after this year), doesn't that mean they can stretch some of the new money over 5 years instead of the 4 in the extension?

I realize they are different positions, but Shields got close to what Thomas got. Who would you rather have -- Shields or Thomas?

[Guiness]

$40M extension -- that's a good if pricey contract for both sides. Thomas is one of the better safeties in the league. Since it's an extension (contract was up after this year), doesn't that mean they can stretch some of the new money over 5 years instead of the 4 in the extension?

I realize they are different positions, but Shields got close to what Thomas got. Who would you rather have -- Shields or Thomas?

Had to check - he was drafted in 2010, the last draft before the new CBA and rookie salaries came in, but he did have a 5 year deal. They can stretch the new signing bonus over 5 years, but his number wasn't that low for 2014, he already had a $4.6M base and near $6.5M cap number.

Can't compare a CB and safety salary, just look at the franchise numbers - over $3M difference between them.