National Football League

Eagles lock in WR Avant with new five-year deal

Published Mar. 8, 2010 12:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

The Philadelphia Eagles and wide receiver Jason Avant agreed on a five-year contract Monday.

Avant was a restricted free agent. He had a career-best 41 receptions for 587 yards and three touchdowns last season as Philadelphia's slot receiver.

"Jason Avant has developed into one of our most dependable and productive players on offense," coach Andy Reid said. "He's physical, he's tough and he has the respect of all of his teammates. Jason plays the game of football the right way; he competes on a daily basis, whether it's in the game or in practice."

Drafted in the fourth round in 2006, Avant has 103 catches and eight TDs in four seasons. He has a knack for making clutch catches. Avant has 37 receptions on third down, including 32 that have resulted in first downs.

"Jason is an important component of our offense and we're glad to get him signed to a long-term contract," general manager Howie Roseman said. "I really admire his approach to the game of football and his approach to life in general."