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Source: Lions C Raiola banks $20M in new deal
Now, Raiola is being counted on to help with the rebuilding process.
The Lions signed Raiola on Thursday to a four-year contract extension through the 2013 season. A source told FOXSports.com that the deal includes $20 million in new money with $9 million guaranteed. In addition, Raiola also is now assured of collecting a $4 million base salary for 2009.
"He's everything that's right about the NFL," Lions coach Jim Schwartz told The Associated Press. "He's a guy that embraces the city he lives in. He lives here year-round. He is as hard a working guy as you're going to imagine."
Raiola, 31, has started all but four games for the Lions since the 2002 season. He was a 2001 second-round draft choice.
The Lions, which became the first team to ever finish 0-16 last season, have also added veterans Daniel Loper, Jon Jansen and Ephraim Salaam this offseason in hopes of bolstering their offensive line. Right guard Stephen Peterman was signed to a five-year, $15 million contract extension in February.
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