On Monday evening, it was reported that Arizona Cardinals left tackle D.J. Humphries reached a three-year extension. This deal is likely to have some impact on the Indianapolis Colts and their hopes to re-sign veteran left tackle Anthony Castonzo.
While still awaiting word of his return or retirement, Castonzo’s potential contract could come into light after the figures came out for Humphries’ deal. Humphries is younger and a reliable tackle but not yet on the same level as Castonzo, who is coming off of an arguable elite season in 2019.
Humphries’ new contract is for three years and worth $45 million. He gets $30 million over the first two years with $29 of it guaranteed.
The #AZCardinals have agreed with OT D.J. Humphries on a three-year, $45 million deal with $30m over the first 2 years, $29m guaranteed, sources say. Jon Perzley and Brian Mackler of @SPORTSTARSNYC were able to strike a deal with the Cards on David Johnson and now Humphries.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 18, 2020
While we won’t know the figures of a potential Castonzo contract until they are out, this helps us form a picture as to how much he might get if he does return.
Castonzo’s deal should be in the range of two or three seasons. It can be assumed that a shorter deal would include more guaranteed money. But if a player like Humphries is getting $15 million per season and 64% of his deal guaranteed, we can now begin to form an idea of what Castonzo could get.
It was always assumed Castonzo’s new deal would be among the highest-paid tackles in terms of average annual value. Right tackle Lane Johnson leads all tackles at $18 million while Taylor Lewan leads all left tackles at $16 million per season.
It wouldn’t be shocking to see the average annual value reach that number—or even succeed it given the short length of the expected contract. Getting it done earlier will keep the figure lower but it should still be among the top in the market given his recent success.
We projected Castonzo getting a deal somewhere in the ballpark of two years, $35 million and $26.25 guaranteed (75%). Maybe Castonzo’s deal doesn’t reach the $35 million as that would be $17.5 per season but it should still be right around that number.
There should be news about Castonzo’s situation soon. The Colts will want it done before the NFL Combine arrives next week.
Now with Humphries’ new deal, we have an idea of what Castonzo’s potential contract could look like.