Buffalo Bills News: Marcell Dareus agrees to new multi-year deal

Marcell Dareus secures his long-term future with the Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills have received a massive boost ahead of their home opener against the Indianapolis Colts. Marcell Dareus has agreed to a new multi-year deal.

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The news was first reported by Adam Schefter. The ESPN NFL insider confirmed the Bills have signed Dareus to a six-year extension, worth just over $100 million.

The contract includes $60 million in guaranteed money. This represents the highest guarantee for a non-quarterback in NFL history.

In many respects, the two-time Pro Bowler is worth the money. His play, particularly during the last two seasons, has helped the Bills defensive line become arguably the best in the NFL.

The agreement brings to an end what was, at times, a testing time for both sides. The team obviously wanted to get a deal done, while not compromising themselves in respect of other upcoming contract negotiations.

The Bills initial offer (also for six years) was for $90 million, something which Dareus was less than impressed with. At the time, he said: “They’re making it hard, and it’s just really making me unhappy.”

Part of the issue, was that the 2011 third overall draft pick felt he was worthy of money similar to Ndamukong Suh. During the offseason, the defensive tackle signed a six year, $114 million contract to join the Miami Dolphins.

The 25-year old even hinted that 2015 could be his final year in Western New York. However, this was likely just posturing on his part, given that the Bills likely would have used the franchise tag on him next season, if a deal couldn’t be agreed.

In any event, this is no longer a concern. With the matter now settled, the Bills front office can concentrate on other pending free agents on the roster.

Next: Predicting the Buffalo Bills 2015 campaign, game-by-game

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