Timmy Jernigan, Eagles sign multi-year contract extension

Timmy Jernigan and the Philadelphia Eagles have agreed to terms on a four-year, $48 million contract with $26 million guaranteed, according to NFL insider Adam Schefter. Big news!

Jernigan was set to be a free agent after the 2017 season, but the Eagles clearly had long-term interest after acquiring the defensive tackle in a trade with the Ravens earlier this year. The Eagles sent their 2017 third round pick to Baltimore in exchange for Jernigan and one of the Ravens’ third round picks.

In nine games with the Eagles this season, the 25-year-old Jernigan has recorded 11 tackles and 1.5 sacks. His impact goes beyond the numbers, however. He’s clearly been a key part of an Eagles defense that ranks first overall in stopping the run (66.4 yards allowed per game) and first overall in pressure (25 pressures per game). Jernigan’s presence has made it more difficult for teams to give extra attention to his Pro Bowl teammate, Fletcher Cox.

The Eagles have a number of key free agent decisions to make after this season (Alshon Jeffery, Nigel Bradham, etc). It’s good to see they’ve already locked up one key player for the long-term.

Here’s an official statement from the team.

“Since the day he entered the building, Tim has been a difference maker both on the field and around the building. 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.”