Bears sign Rashied Davis to multi-year deal
April 24, 2008
BY BRAD BIGGS
The Bears signed a player to a multiyear extension, though it wasn't any of the ones making news.
No, the stalemate with Brian Urlacher has not ended, and Tommie Harris, Devin Hester and Robbie Gould still are seeking long-term deals. But wide receiver Rashied Davis has a contract through 2010 after reaching agreement with the team Wednesday afternoon.
"There's been a lot of talk about contracts lately," Davis said. "No one was expecting me. That's OK. I like to be unexpected.
"I'm really excited because I wanted to stay in Chicago, and my wife and I didn't want to have to pack up and move again. We're just getting settled. I'm elated."
A former Arena League star turned versatile NFL utility man, Davis remains a model for those playing the indoor game after signing a three-year contract with a base value of $3.87 million. Escalators can push the deal to $5.87 million.
Davis is a slot receiver whose value was enhanced on special teams last season, and the Bears hope his role will expand as the offense turns around.
He has been a clutch performer in the past with a touchdown in the closing minutes to beat Minnesota in 2006 and a long third-down catch in overtime to help defeat Seattle in the playoffs. But in an offense that puttered along with the hazard lights on all last season, he made only 17 receptions for 165 yards.
Davis, 28, turned down an offer from the Bears last season, and waiting paid off. He receives a $1.1 million signing bonus and base pay of $520,000 this season. There's a $400,000 roster bonus for 2009, and the deal includes an annual workout bonus worth $50,000. He'll be paid $765,000 in 2009 and $935,000 in 2010.
Not bad for a restricted free agent who signed his one-year tender for $927,000 five days earlier. His escalators are in three tiers tied to receptions. He has to make 45 to trigger the lowest escalator. It might seem like a lot for a guy with 39 career catches, but he's planning to be more involved.
FULL STORY
http://www.suntimes.com/sports/footb...042308.article
Bears sign Rashied Davis to multi-year deal
Bears sign Rashied Davis to multi-year deal
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