Indianapolis Colts receiver T.Y. Hilton is entering the final year of his rookie deal. However, that has not stopped the young wideout from looking out for his future.
Immediately following the new contracts received by Dez Bryant and Demaryius Thomas, both five-year deals worth $70 million, Hilton knew where the market was and let everybody know about it.
All this BREAKING NEWS. Does this mean the bar is set?? #THEGHOST
— TY Hilton (@TYHilton13) July 15, 2015
The bar has indeed been set, but Hilton may not quite reach that level. While his numbers are terrific and improving in each of his three seasons thus far (3,289 yards and 19 touchdowns), most would agree that his level of play isn’t on the same level as Bryant and Thomas.
Nevertheless, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport notes that the Colts are working on securing an extension with Hilton before training camp concludes.
“There is optimism that they could finish both extensions before training camp ends,” Rapoport said. “Once camp ends, then business starts and it’s no more time to talk contracts.”
When Rapoport mentions “both” extensions, he is also referring to the Colts inking a deal with left tackle Anthony Castonzo.
Regarding Hilton, there has been some speculation that the team may have drafted wide receiver Phillip Dorsett to eventually fill Hilton’s role. This however, does not seem to be the case according to Rapoport:
“This organization loves and wants to reward (Hilton),” said Rapoport. “He’s a high-character guy and they want nothing more than to give him the kind of contract extension that he deserves.”
Drew Rosenhaus, who is Hilton’s agent, is reportedly scheduled to meet with the Colts management Tuesday. When addressing the media, Rosenhaus reported that Hilton plans to spend his whole career as a member of the Colts.
.@RosenhausSports talking to reporters about the potential TY Hilton extension. “He wants to be here for his career.” pic.twitter.com/eGT3u1zRNW
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 4, 2015
Being that Hilton was a third-round pick back in 2012, he is on course to earn only $1.542 million in 2015. He is not likely to break the bank like Bryant and Thomas did with their $70 million deals. However, whatever extension the two parties agree upon will certainly earn Hilton quite the raise from the current paycheck he would otherwise receive.
Photo: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports