The Cleveland Browns and linebacker Christian Kirksey agreed to a new four-year extension on Tuesday. In doing so, both parties managed to send messages.
Cleveland Browns linebacker Christian Kirksey might not be a household name to those outside of Cleveland. However, he's shown a lot of talent and promise for the Browns in his three-year career.
Last season, Kirksey finished the year ranked third in the NFL with a whopping 148 tackles. Through three seasons, he's racked up 292 tackles, 8.0 sacks, six passes defended and two forced fumbles.
On Tuesday, the Browns rewarded Kirksey with a four-year contract extension. According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport, the deal with worth $38 million with $20 million guaranteed. For the Browns, the move continues to show young players on the roster that hard work and production will be rewarded.
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"Christian Kirksey brings a lot to this football team," Executive Vice President of Football Operations Sashi Brown said, via the team's official website. "He's another example of a young talented football player that we want to be part of our organization for the long-term."
By signing the deal, Kirksey shows that he believes in the direction in which the organization is headed. The Browns have clearly invested in building through youth and the draft, and Kirksey stands as both a testament and believer in that process.
"I am glad to be here and to be a Brown for a long time," Kirksey said, via the team's official website. "This is my home. This is where I want to be. I love my teammates and we are ready to get this thing rolling. I am excited for the future."
Kirksey could have played out another season and looked for a new opportunity in free agency, as many players developed by the Browns have recently done. Instead, he's buying in, which could be a sign that the culture in Cleveland is finally changing.
