Cleveland Browns

Browns LB Christian Kirksey signs 4-year extension reportedly worth $38 million

Published May. 30, 2017 4:26 p.m. ET

Nunzio Ingrassia

Cleveland Browns linebacker Christian Kirksey took full advantage of his increased playing time in 2016, and now he’s being paid handsomely for his uptick in production.

Kirksey signed a four-year extension Tuesday that will be worth $38 million — $20 million of which is guaranteed, according to multiple reports. The 2014 third-round draft pick had a career year in 2016, recording 148 tackles — third-most in the league — and 2 ½ sacks in his first full year as a starter.

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“He’s another example of a young talented football player that we want to be part of our organization for the long-term,” Browns executive vice president of football operations Sashi Brown said, via the team’s website.

Entering the final year of his rookie deal, Kirksey was one of the few bright spots last season for the Browns, who finished 1-15. Despite the Browns’ awful 2016, Kirksey sees a bright future in Cleveland.

“This is where I want to be,” Kirksey said. “I love my teammates and we are ready to get this thing rolling. I am excited for the future.”