j44thor said:Haven't seen it mentioned elsewhere but McCourty getting a 3M playing time escalator raise for 2014 bringing his cap hit from just over 2M to just over 5M next season. Obviously means an extension becomes an even bigger no brainer, only downside is now McCourty has a little leverage which means the cost might go up a tick.
The 2013 PFF All-Pro pick at Safety, Devin McCourty:
McCourty wound up with our highest grade of the year, with his work in coverage the real standout element of his game.
Interestingly, 2013 was McCourty's worst raw statistical season, with lows in tackles, interceptions and passes defended. It was also the first season where he played exclusively at safety and the Small Sample Size advanced stats of 2012 that showed McCourty to be a potential All-Pro safety turned out to be predictive, both by the advanced stat test and the eye ball test. He played extremely well and the Patriots team pass defense improved measurably due to his efforts.
As j44thor points out, McCourty got a major raise due to playing time escalators, making his contract extension an even bigger priority.
In 2013, the franchise tag number for safeties was $6.9M. It is likely to be that again in 2014.
Fellow 2010 first round pick and positional comparison, Earl Thomas of Seattle, will also be negotiating an extension this offseason and might have a market-setting effect on a potential McCourty extension. Buffalo's Jarius Byrd may also be a free agent, if he's not tagged again. Troy Polamalu & Eric Berry currently sit atop the safety paychart at over $7M/season but neither is a good comparison for McCourty as Polamalu is likely facing a re-negotiation due to declining play and Berry's salary is inflated by the previous CBA draft pick compensation.
As a Team Captain and excellent on-field performer, it's highly likely the Patriots want to sign McCourty long-term. Aside from money there's only one other (probably inconsequential, but...) factor involved - Devin's twin brother Jason who signed a 5/$43M with $20M guaranteed extension with Tennessee in December of 2012.