The Cincinnati Bengals have exercised the fifth-year option on the contract of tight end Tyler Eifert. Eifert, who is now signed through 2017, is the second player from the 2013 draft class to have his option officially picked up.
Bengals exercise 5th-year option on tight end Tyler Eifert
Eifert, who’s the second player from the 2013 draft class to have his option officially picked up, is coming off a career year.
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
The Bengals are getting business done a year early -- the 25-year-old Eifert is entering the final season of his rookie deal and will make a little over $1 million in 2016. The following year, Eifert's pay will be an average of the third through 25th-highest salaries at the safety position. The New Orleans Saints picked up safety Kenny Vaccaro's fifth-year option Tuesday and Carolina Panthers general manager said recently the team will exercise the fifth-year option for defensive tackle Star Lotulelei. The deadline for picking up a player's fifth-year option is May 3.
The fifth-year option was implemented in the most recent version of the collective bargaining agreement established in 2011. The CBA says rookies must sign four-year deals and provides the possibility for teams to pick up the option for a fifth season for first-round selections. The salary established for the fifth year is fully guaranteed in the event of injury. It’s slightly risky for teams, but can also control costs if the player remains healthy and productive.
Eifert, who was selected with the 21st overall pick in 2013, recorded a career-high 52 receptions and 13 touchdowns in 2015. Given the amount of money tight ends have received as of late -- most recently Coby Fleener’s five-year, $36 million deal -- the Bengals are wise to sign Eifert for an additional season. This move will prohibit his salary from getting out of control if he builds on his performance from last year.
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