NFL: 50 million! Patriots extend with offensive man

The New England Patriots have tied Shaq Mason to themselves prematurely. The offensive Lineman would have entered the last year of his rookie contract, on Monday evening both sides agreed.

According to information from NFL network insider Ian Rapoport, the new contract is for five years and up to 50 million dollars, of which 23.5 million dollars are to be guaranteed.

Mason, who celebrates his 25th birthday today (Tuesday), will be one of the top guards financially and especially as a run-blocker he already enjoys a high standing. He has had 41 starts in the last three seasons.

As a pass blocker he allowed three sacks, 13 QB hits and 20 hurries at 753 pass blocking snaps last season. The year before, he was responsible for six sacks of 753 pass blocks.