Mike DeVito Restructures Contract

I could go over the numbers in my own words, but I can't say it any better than Jenny Vrentas, so:

DeVito had been scheduled to earn $2.26 million in the final year of the extension he signed in 2009. In a restructured deal he agreed to last week, he will earn a base salary of $700,000, fully guaranteed, according to NFL Players Association records.

The $500,000 roster bonus he already received this offseason, as well as his $350,000 workout bonus, are intact in his restructured deal. He also received a $950,000 signing bonus, making his total compensation this year $2.5 million.

His cap number, and total compensation, reduced by about $600,000. Since he is due a guaranteed $2.5 million, it is essentially assured that the team will not cut him.

However, the contract also includes a $750,000 escalator, based on playing time, so DeVito has the opportunity to earn his money back.

This was a logical move by Mike. His name has been batted around as potential trade bait, so helping the Jets out and restructuring to lower his cap number increases his chances of being a Jets player at the start of the season. He really kick started his career under Rex Ryan and he has been a valuable asset in the run game over the last couple of seasons. I like depth on the defensive line and DeVito has played a big role, starting 11 games last season.

He is coming off shoulder surgery and of course we have just added more depth to that defensive front in Coples. I like Mike as a player, he is never going to be that superstar, but he is a guy that you are glad you have when he is called upon.