Outside linebacker Pernell McPhee has signed a five-year deal to join the Chicago Bears in 2015, according to the Baltimore Sun’s Aaron Wilson. The contract calls for $40 million, including $16 million guaranteed.
Pernell McPhee to Chicago Bears on five-year, $40 million deal, nearly $16 million guaranteed: http://t.co/JdSXJrop6Y
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 9, 2015
Day 3 picks rarely get paid hefty cash on their second NFL contract, but McPhee earned it based on his play with the Baltimore Ravens, who took him in Round 5 of the 2011 NFL draft. He is a versatile defender, having played defensive tackle, defensive end and outside linebacker with the Ravens over four seasons, so he could very well play pretty much anywhere while in Chicago.
In his first season at outside linebacker, McPhee proved to be one of the more productive players at his position in 2014, ranking No. 2 in Positive Play Percent (stats via Pro Football Focus, subscription required).
What that means is McPhee excels in getting to the quarterback and defending the run, which is what you want from a member of the front seven. A player who can do both well is more valuable than gold because he can stay on the field in both run and pass situations. That means his team doesn’t need to worry about finding a player to replace him on the field in any situation, whether it be to defend the run or get after the quarterback.
McPhee just turned 26. He’s young, and the sky’s the limit regarding his potential as an NFL player. He’s also a tremendous fit in the Bears new 3-4 defensive scheme.
Photo: USA Today