Birds reward Jernigan with new 4-year deal
The Eagles locked up defensive tackle Tim Jernigan with a four-year contract worth up to $48 million, according to Spotrac. com.
Jernigan, 24, is guaranteed $26 million over the life of the deal, announced Thursday by the Eagles.
Jernigan’s stats don’t tell the full story of his value to the Eagles. In eight games, he’s made Philly fans forget that the team declined to re-sign defensive tackle Bennie Logan, a buddy of All-Pro tackle Fletcher Cox.
“Since the day he entered the building, Tim has been a difference maker both on the field and around the building,” the Eagles said in a statement. “He’s a tough, physical and relentless player who brings energy and enthusiasm every day. Tim possesses a lot of the qualities that we look for as we continue to build this team, and we are excited about his future here in Philadelphia.”
Jernigan has eight tackles for loss, a disruptive stat in which he’s tied for the team lead with Brandon Graham. Jernigan has 1.5 sacks and five quarterback hurries.
Jernigan has 14.5 sacks and 24 tackles for loss in 52 career NFL games, the first three seasons coming with Ravens, who selected him in the second round of the 2014 draft.
The Eagles shipped a third-round pick to the Ravens for Jernigan, who had one year left on his rookie deal.
The Eagles are a leagueleading 8-1 in this, their bye week.