The contract extension for Tom Coughlin that kept on growing and growing in value as the Giants surged to victory in Super Bowl XLII is likely to be officially announced today, even though the basics of the deal have been set for a few weeks.
Coughlin is expected to sign a four-year deal worth slightly more than $20 million, assuring he’ll be under contract with the Giants through the 2011 season, when Coughlin will be 65 years old.
Back in 2004, Coughlin came to the Giants with a four-year, $12 million deal and following last season was given a one-year extension for $3.5 million. It’s expected the Giants will rip up that extended year for the new and more lucrative package.
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Thus far in free agency, the Giants have been predictably quiet, with their lone signing the addition of veteran safety Sammy Knight, who replaces Gibril Wilson (gone to the Raiders). Seeking to add to their depth at cornerback, the Giants have interest in Brian Kelly, who spent the previous 10 seasons with the Buccaneers. Kelly, 32, will visit the Giants today.
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It is altogether fitting that Super Bowl hero David Tyree has become the first Giants player to secure a publishing deal, as he will collaborate on a book about the season, his faith and, of course, his remarkable ascension to stardom because of his involvement in what’s being called the greatest play in Super Bowl history.
The book, scheduled to be released in September, will be published by the Strang Book Group.
After an improbable escape by Eli Manning, Tyree’s catch off his helmet in the closing minute of Super Bowl XLII led to the winning touchdown in the Giants’ dramatic 17-14 upset victory over the previously-unbeaten Patriots.
“It is important to me for people to understand who I am, where I came from, and how God has moved in my life,” Tyree said.