WEDNESDAY, 9:54am: Fusco’s deal includes $24.25MM in new money, $6MM in guarantees, and has a maximum value of $27MM, according to Brian McIntyre (via Twitter).
SATURDAY, 1:15pm: The Vikings have agreed with guard Brandon Fusco on a five-year extension worth $25MM, reports Tom Pelissero of USA Today (via Twitter). The deal will include $6MM in guaranteed money.
Fusco was a sixth-round pick in the 2011 NFL draft out of Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania. He has started in 31 games over the last two seasons, and showed significant signs of improvement last year. According to Pro Football Focus’ advanced metrics (subscription required), Fusco ranked among the bottom 10 qualified guards in the NFL during the 2012 season, but was a top-10 option last season, posting a grade of +15.7.
As a sixth-rounder, Fusco didn’t have a fifth-year option on his rookie contract, so he would’ve been eligible for free agency in March if the Vikings hadn’t locked him up.