Falcons quarterback Michael Vick signs richest NFL deal in history

Jet, Jan 17, 2005

Michael Vick recently became the richest player in the NFL by agreeing to call Atlanta home for the next decade.

The Falcons' star quarterback signed a 10-year; $130 million contract extension that guarantees him an NFL-record $37 million in bonuses, and he wants to prove he's worth every penny.

"The only thing that matters is winning football games. It's not about being the highest-paid guy in the NFL because that doesn't mean anything if you don't win football games," the 24-year-old Vick said. "A lot of guys come into the league, they bounce around and never really find a home. But I'm very excited to know that I'll be here and have an opportunity to bring a Super Bowl to this city."

Vick's deal surpasses the $98 million contract Indianapolis quarterback Peyton Manning signed last March. Manning, who signed for seven years, is guaranteed $34.5 million in bonuses. Vick's $130 million in potential value tops Philadelphia QB Donovan McNabb's 12-year, $115 million deal that runs through 2013.

The No. 1 overall draft pick in 2001, Vick has a 24-12-1 career record. He is 14-4 since returning from a broken ankle last year, and has led the Falcons to just the third division title in franchise history.

In a Week 8 victory at Denver, Vick, who was selected to his second Pro Bowl, became the first player in league history to rush for 100 yards and pass for 250 in a game.