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The start of NFL free agency doesn't open for another two weeks, but that hasn't stopped the Philadelphia Eagles from dishing-out some big contracts. On Wednesday, they signed offensive tackle Jason Peters to a long-term extension, and they followed that up with a new deal for wide receiver Riley Cooper.
They've now signed center Jason Kelce to a six-year, $37.5 million contract extension, which puts him among the top-five centers in the league in terms of average annual salary.
The team is now looking to sign impending free agent Jeremy Maclin to a new deal, but there's still a good chance he hits the market. Watching what the Eagles are doing right now provides hope that the Cincinnati Bengals will do the same with their impending free agents and players with one year left on their rookie deals.
Carolina Panthers free agent guard Travelle Wharton said he's unsure about his NFL future. After missing the entire 2012 season with the Bengals sue to a torn ACL, Wharton had a nice bounce-back season with the Panthers last year, but t age 33, he may be willing to hang up the cleats for good.
CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora reports seven teams reached out to free agent middle linebacker D'Qwell Jackson following his release from the Cleveland Browns on Wednesday. NFL Network's Jeff Darlington also reports that Jackson already has a visit setup for Thursday. He's free to sign with any team now because his contract was terminated and didn't expire.
The Chicago Bears re-signed Center Roberto Garza to a one-year. $1.5 million contract. He would have been one of top free agent centers to hit the market, but he'll remain in Chicago for at least one more season.
Free agent defensive tackle Henry Melton's agent said his client would have interest in signing with the Dallas Cowboys. After being franchised by the Chicago bears last year, Melton tore his ACL and missed much of the year. If he's able to return to form in 2014, whoever signs him will be getting one of the best DTs in the game for a value price.