Getty ImagesTechnically, Giants cornerback Terrell Thomas has signed a four-year $28 million deal with the Giants. Per a league source, however, it’s a one-year contract worth $2 million, with the remaining $26 million hinging on whether he plays well enough in 2012 to justify the team picking up the option.
It’s a common tactic used for players who are coming back from serious injury. Indeed, the contract signed by Drew Brees six years ago in New Orleans contained the same kind of provision, forcing Brees to prove that his shoulder had healed before unlocking much bigger money.
In Thomas’ case, he tore an ACL in the 2011 preseason — the second time in the same knee.
And as to the $11 million in guaranteed money that Thomas is due to earn? It’s actually an $11 million option bonus, non-guaranteed.
There’s no reason to think he won’t play well enough to deserve the payment, if he’s healthy. But last year Ravens cornerback Domonique Foxworth wasn’t the same guy a year after tearing an ACL. If Thomas isn’t the same guy in 2012, his new contract won’t extend into 2013.
UPDATE: Per a source with knowledge of the specific details, the base value of the contract is indeed $2 million, via a $1 million signing bonus and a $1 million base salary. He also has another $1 million in roster bonuses tied being available for games, and 1.75 million in playing-time incentives, which begin to kick in if Thomas participates in 40 percent of the snaps.
Channel Finder
great signing by the Giants. even better when seeing how it’s structured. Jerry Reese is no dummy.
Love the deal. With Aaron Ross potentially leaving, the Giants secondary could have taken a hit. They signed their insurance policy with a contract filled with insurance policies. Makes perfect sense.
What it does say is that Aaron Ross will not be back.
This is a good deal. Make the guy prove it. If he does, he will get his money. Good deal for everyone involved.
Exactly, this is why people shouldn’t just be so quick to say “28 million for a CB that just tore his ACL!!??”. The contract can look big, when all it is is a deal with at least 90% of the money as part of incentives. Giants did the same thing with Shawn Andrews. This could make Terrell Thomas pretty motivated to come back strong, play well, and earn every penny. If not the Giants cut ties with him. It’s a great job by Reese.
Looks like a great deal by a smart GM…Jerry Jones are you paying attention?