The Buffalo Bills signed fullback Patrick DiMarco to a hefty free-agent contract during Sean McDermott’s first season as head coach. He’s remained a constant on the roster, providing leadership and stability even as literally almost every member of the offense has been overhauled. He’s also a valuable special teams contributor.
But now DiMarco is set to turn 31 this offseason and he’s entering the final year of his deal. If the Bills want to solidify their fullback position beyond 2020, they could certainly offer a modest extension to DiMarco to keep him on the roster potentially through the 2022 season. By structuring it correctly, they won’t be beholden to an aging and faulty fullback, but if he maintains his high level they can keep him around.
Comparable contracts
James Develin
2 years, $3.8 million in 2018
Develin is one year older than DiMarco, but the New England Patriots extended him through his age-32 season much like we’re suggesting with DiMarco. They are in the same ballpark for average salary already. It’s a great comp.
Jamize Olawale
Three years, $5.4 million in 2019
Another 30-year-old fullback making about $1.8 million, this contract was signed less than a yea ago. Jon Gruden was trying to bring a hard-nosed running attack back to the ROakland/Las Vegas Raiders and tasked Olawale with the job.
Projected contract
2 years, $4 million extension
$1.85 million fully guaranteed
This would be a really solid contract for both sides. Buffalo fully guarantees DiMarco’s existing 2020 salary, ensuring he’s on the roster this year. (That’s good for DiMarco.) In exchange, he gets two one-year team options for $2 million each in 2021 and 2022 with no guaranteed money or dead money beyond 2020. (That’s good for Buffalo.) No fuss, no muss and DiMarco likely finishes his career in Buffalo.
2020
Pro-rated signing bonus: $500,000 (from 2017 contract)
Workout bonus: $50,000
Base Salary $1.8 million (now fully guaranteed)
Cap hit: $2.35 million
2021
Base Salary $1.95 million
Cap hit: $1.95 million
Dead money if cut: $0
2022
Base Salary $2.05 million
Cap hit: $2.05 million
Dead money if cut: $0