The New England Patriots have agreed to terms on a four-year rookie deal with second-round defensive lineman Ron Brace that includes $2.82 million in guaranteed money and carries a maximum value of nearly $4.5 million, according to a league source.
Per the source, Brace will receive a $1.68 million option bonus next March as well as a $454,000 roster bonus in the middle of next month.
The first-year salary is guaranteed and the second-year salary will include $373,000 in guaranteed money.
The contract includes a fourth-year escalator clause based on playing time that could boost the total value of the deal to the $4.5 million level.
Brace was a three-year starter for Boston College who was named second-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference as a senior.
In four seasons, he recorded 85 tackles, 5 1/2 sacks and 23 tackles for losses.