Fletcher Cox On New Contract: 'Mind-Blowing'
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Even Fletcher Cox admits the numbers of his new contract are staggering.
The Eagles Defensive Lineman has a new extension which is reportedly worth $103 million. There are also reports that $63 million of the deal is guaranteed. If the numbers are correct, Cox will have one of the highest non-quarterback contracts in the NFL. The defensive lineman couldn't help but be humbled by the staggering total of his new deal.
"It's really mind-blowing," said Cox. "When you're dealing with that much money, it's really mind-blowing. I'm really, really excited about it."
Cox skipped the team's voluntary workouts in the spring, but returned for the Eagles' mandatory mini-camp. While the clock seemed to be ticking towards a showdown with the front office before training camp, Cox said he was never worried about not getting a new deal before the start of the season.
"I was never concerned about it," Cox said. "I knew that they would get it done. I think it just takes patience and a lot of time. They got it done, and I'm really happy and excited."
General Manager Howie Roseman made Cox's contract one of his top priorities during the off-season. While some wondered if the Eagles may have overpaid to keep their prized defensive lineman, Roseman was excited to keep a player who he said could become one of the best in the history of the franchise.
"We're really excited to have him here in Philadelphia for a long period of time," said Roseman. "He's a great player, and he's someone we can build around on and off the field."
Roseman's extension for Cox is one of a host of moves he has made since regaining power in the front office. Roseman insists moves like the Cox contract will eventually lead to the kind of continuity the Eagles experienced during the days when Andy Reid was pacing the sidelines.
"We felt like there were a bunch of players we want to keep here," Roseman said. "For us to have a run of the same success that we had from '99 to 2008 when we went to five championship games, we needed some continuity."
Cox emphasized that the contract won't change him as a player or as a teammate. He is looking forward to taking on an even greater leadership role, and says he plans to also lead by example both on the field and in the locker room.
"I have high expectations for myself," said Cox. "All I can be is Fletcher Cox. That's being really, really humble about it, coming to practice every day and to let my teammates know that I'm there for them."