Buccaneers, DT Gerald McCoy agree to seven-year, $98M contract extension

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and defensive tackle Gerald McCoy have agreed to a seven-year, $98 million contract extension, according to the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and defensive tackle Gerald McCoy have agreed to a seven-year, $98 million contract extension, according to the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. The deal includes $51.5 million in guarantees.

Confirming @JayGlazer's tweet, the #Bucs & @Geraldini93 have agreed to terms on a long-term extension! #BucForLife pic.twitter.com/dk78ZXOTlk

— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) October 25, 2014

In a statement on the Bucs' official website, general manager Jason Licht said that resigning McCoy was a top priority:

From the moment Lovie and I arrived here, we knew it was vital for us to keep Gerald in Tampa Bay long term as one of the cornerstones of our franchise. With the backing of the Glazer family, we were able to accomplish that. On the field, Gerald is one of the best players in the National Football League, who has been extremely productive and will be for years to come. We are happy to reward someone that has a rare work ethic, which not only makes him an elite player, but serves as an example for our entire team. His commitment, character and leadership are attributes that make him a truly special person, who will play a pivotal role in our future success.

McCoy, a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the most dominant defensive players in the league, has 17 tackles, nine rushes, and two sacks on the season, this despite missing two games with a broken hand. Tampa Bay selected McCoy with the third pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. His most dominant season came in 2013, where he racked up 9.5 sacks and 35 tackles.

"Gerald is extremely excited to remain with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and he is especially thankful to Bucs owners, coaches, and Jason Licht for working so hard throughout the process," said McCoy's agent, Ben Dogra

Despite the play of McCoy, the Bucs are currently 1-5 and ranked last in the NFL in yards allowed. 

-- Alex Suskind