Bills Extend Fred Jackson

Added on May 08, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

The Buffalo Bills did the right thing on Monday when they extended the contract of running back Fred Jackson, who has led the team in rushing the last three seasons. The two-year extension is reportedly worth $9 million and will lock up the dual threat runner through 2014. While not on par with the elite backs’ compensation, the new deal represents a significant bump in salary.

Jackson’s payday goes against the grain by league standards. At 31, he is one the game’s oldest starting running backs. In addition, he is coming off a shortened 2011 campaign that cost him six games due to a broken right leg suffered in mid-November. He still finished with a team-high 934 yards and a career-best 5.5 yards per carry.

Jackson is relieved the financial wranglings are complete and is looking forward to getting back his leg strength and returning to the field.

“I’m here to prove to myself that this is where I belong,” said Jackson, who has been cleared for practice. “It’ll be another challenge, and I love challenges, so I look forward to getting out there and continuing to play well.”

Jackson’s journey to the top has been an unorthodox and bumpy one. After starring at tiny Division III Coe College, he went undrafted and played two years for Sioux City of the U.S. Indoor Football League. He then joined the Bills in 2006, but played sparingly until 2008. He split time with Marshawn Lynch before taking over the starting gig in 2009 when he climbed the 1000-yard plateau.

With quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, wide receiver Stevie Johnson and change-of-pace back C.J. Spiller emerging on offense, the Bills have the makings of a potent attack, provided they all continue to hone their skills. Jackson still fuels the engine though, so keeping him happy and healthy is imperative if Buffalo wants to contend in the AFC East in 2012.

Source: ESPN.com