Dunn, Brooking re-work contracts
Dunn signed through 2008
http://www.ajc.com/search/content/sp.../0413dunn.html
By STEVE WYCHE , D. ORLANDO LEDBETTER
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 04/12/06
Pro Bowlers Warrick Dunn and Keith Brooking have re-worked their contracts to allow the Falcons more flexibility under the NFL's $102 million salary cap, both players' agents confirmed Wednesday.
Dunn signed a one-year contract extension — through the 2008 season — and turned future earnings into a $2.5 million signing bonus. Per league rules, the salary-cap charge for signing bonuses is prorated over the term of the deal.
Dunn, coming off a career-best season in carries (280) and yards (1,416), trimmed roughly $3 million off his cap charge by re-working his contract for a second consecutive season. He will earn $2.7 million this season and is scheduled to make $12.45 million over the next three years.
Dunn expressed some apprehension late last season about his $8.5 million salary-cap charge, making him a potential salary-cap casualty. However, president and general manager Rich McKay said the team would do what it had to in order to retain its leading rusher and most recognized humanitarian, hinting at the contract adjustment.
Brooking, who last season made his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl appearance, turned $2.7 million of this season's base salary into a signing bonus. He also reinstated a year he had previously voided to allow his cap charge to be prorated through the 2009, when his contract expires.
Brooking reduced his cap charge next season by roughly $2 million. He will earn $1.6 million in base salary this season and is scheduled to earn $19.6 million over the duration of his contract.
The re-working of Brooking's contract was precipitated by the Falcons' need for cap space in order to trade for Saints offensive tackle Wayne Gandy, who is scheduled to earn $4 million this season, according to Brooking's agent, Pat Dye Jr.