Jason McCourty and Tennessee Titans Agree to 5-Year Extension

The Tennessee Titans and cornerback Jason McCourty have come to an agreement on a five-year extension that keeps him with the team through the 2017 NFL season. 

According to the NFL:

"

Titans, Jason McCourty agree to $43M extension: nfl.com/news/story/0ap…

— NFL (@nfl) August 23, 2012"

This is a savvy move by the front office that secures one of the league's best young players for a reasonable price—especially considering how expensive premium cornerbacks have become out on the open market. 

Additionally, according to the NFL.com report, McCourty's 2012 base salary is a measly $1.26 million—a move that allows the team to have room to maneuver if it needs to do so. 

McCourty had a phenomenal season for the Titans in 2011. He posted a team-high 103 tackles—83 of which were solo—one sack, two interceptions and 13 passes deflected. Those are Pro Bowl-worthy numbers, and the Titans are obviously expecting him to continue getting better in the coming years. 

McCourty gives the Titans flexibility on defense, as he's big, strong and fast enough to take on most of the league's receivers one-on-one. Plus, he's technically sound.

According to Pro Football Focus, he was the seventh-best cornerback in the NFL in 2011. He only missed six tackles all season long and gave up one touchdown pass. 

The Titans made a smart move to lock him up before the season begins, giving him peace of mind with regard to his future so he can focus solely on football in 2012.

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