Panthers ink Foster to 3-year deal

[Free Bagel]

Panthers, Foster agree on three-year dealBy John Clayton
ESPN.com


The Carolina Panthers placed the transition tag on halfback DeShaun Foster to make sure he didn't hit the free agent market, Minutes before the start of free agency, the Panthers locked up Foster to a three-year deal.

Foster agreed to a three-year, $14.5 million contract Friday night that includes a $4.5 million signing bonus. The $14.5 million could end up being worth another $3 million based on escalators and incentives.

Foster became the third major free agent running back to decide to stay with his team. Shaun Alexander stayed with the Seahawks by signing an eight-year, $62 million contract. Ahman Green stayed with the Packers by signing a one-year deal at $2 million that could grow to $5 million based on incentives.

The Panthers placed a premium on keeping Foster after releasing Stephen Davis last month. Though Foster has fought some injuries, he's been a big back in many ways and has played well in big games. When Foster runs well, the Panthers usually get into the playoffs and do well.


On Friday, Foster received a $700,000 raise on his $5.150 million transition tender thanks to a calculating change in the transition and franchise tenders because of the new collective bargaining agreement. Foster is the first of the five remaining franchise or transition players to sign.

Around $5 mil per year with incentives that could bump it up to $6, looks like starting RB money.

[flotsamnjetsam]

Nick Goings stock just went up a lot. He'll be starting after Foster goes down in week 3.

[Free Bagel]

I would say Shelton's stock went up as well.

[no1cowboysfan]

That's big money for a somewhat unproven guy ... or at least a guy with a few red flags on him.

This will probably be a coming trend with the new CBA.

[UNDEFEATED]

Loyalty. Very much like the Ike Bruce signing.

[michaelavelli]

I also think that his way too much $.

[maddog60]

5 million a year for Foster? That's a terrible move. Especially with this 3 year signing, which clearly indicates they don't think he's a long term solution at RB.

[steelerfan513]

too much money for a guy thats ended up on the injured reserve almost every year. if the panthers dont get a guy other than goings to back him up and he goes down, we could see the nfc championship again for the entire season.