Hill's Deal: 6 Years, $38 mil

by: Michael Steffes

Leroy signed a long term deal similar to what had been on the table throughout the offseason.

In the end the deal will be for 6 years, $38 million, with $15.5 million guaranteed. John Clayton reports there is a provision in the deal that allows Hill to keep his guaranteed money, regardless of whether or not he is suspended for his off the field arrest early in the year.

This seems to be a good deal for both parties. Hill gets more money that the Hawks were offering after originally placing the tag on him, plus he gets to keep his guaranteed money despite his incident. However, the Hawks gave him less in guaranteed money that it would have cost to franchise him for two years. This makes the commitment overall to Leroy somewhat low, especially for a player who was franchised tagged. It also will keep the salary cap figure fairly low. We can assume that will especially be the case in the contract's first year. Most importantly, they get Hill in camp in time to keep him as a highly productive asset to the defense.

Hill remains a Seahawk, and the team succeeds in retaining part of the young nucleus of this defense. It is a good day to be a fan. END