Report: Patriots, Mayo Rework Contract
BOSTON (CBS) -- The New England Patriots and Jerod Mayo have cleared a huge hurdle in the linebacker's return to the team.
According to Fox Sports, the Patriots and Mayo are finalizing a new contract that will keep the two-time Pro Bowler on the roster as he recovers from a knee injury.
Mayo's season ended early for the second straight year in 2014, making his future with the team a little murky. He was protected by an injury guarantee in his contract, meaning the Patriots would owe him $4.5 million if they cut him before he was deemed completely healthy.
According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, it's a one-year deal with $4.5 million fully guaranteed, and Mayo has a chance to earn up to $6 million. The new contract also includes two option years.
#Patriots & captain Jerod Mayo agreed on a 1-year deal for $4.5M fully guaranteed. Chance to make $6M, source said. Then 2 option years.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 22, 2015
If Pats do not pick up option in 2016 Mayo will then become an UFA and be eligible for 2017 comp pick calculations https://t.co/iNTTscv0hP
— Miguel Benzan Patriots Cap Space equals 765,014 (@patscap) April 22, 2015
The 29-year-old Mayo has appeared in just 12 games the last two seasons. He tore his patella tendon in October last season, and was sidelined in 2013 after tearing his pectoral muscle in Week 6. In those 12 games, Mayo recorded 108 tackles, 2.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries.
Mayo has been the leader of New England's linebacking corps since the team drafted him 10th overall in 2008, registering 756 tackles and 10 sacks in 87 games played.