NFL
McNabb, Eagles restructure deal
PHILADELPHIA — Donovan McNabb got a big raise instead of a longer contract.
McNabb and the Philadelphia Eagles have agreed to restructure the final two years of his contract. McNabb’s new deal is worth $24.5 million over the next two seasons, a person familiar with the negotiations told the Associated Press.
A “significant” portion of McNabb’s base salary for 2010 also is guaranteed, according to the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity because terms of the deal were not released. While signing bonuses are guaranteed in NFL contracts, base salaries usually are not.
The five-time Pro Bowl quarterback was due to make $19.2 million over the next two seasons. The team announced the restructured deal Thursday night.
“The Philadelphia Eagles organization and the entire city of Philadelphia are fortunate to have a quarterback the caliber of Donovan McNabb,” coach Andy Reid said in a statement.
McNabb, who turns 33 in November, made it clear last season that he wanted a new deal so he can play his entire career in Philadelphia, where’s he’s been intensely scrutinized and both celebrated and often criticized for his play. His agent and the Eagles discussed an extension, but the two sides settled on restructuring his current contract for now.
“We are thrilled that this all worked out,” team President Joe Banner said. “He is a great football player, a great person, and someone who gives back to the community. We are lucky to have him.”
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Around the league
• The Houston Texans have agreed to a one-year deal with Rex Grossman. The former Chicago Bears QB is expected to compete for a backup job.
• Ryan Leaf’s lawyer says the indicted former NFL QB will surrender on drug and burglary charges in Texas. Bill Kelly told the AP late Thursday that Leaf is “not a fugitive from justice” and will return next week.
Prosecutor Lacy Miller says a warrant was issued May 20 and that Leaf has been working in British Columbia.
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