Jairus Byrd Seeking Around $40 Million From Buffalo Bills
By Josh Sanchez
While a few players that are currently designated with the franchise tag may be agreeing to a new deal by Monday, don’t count Buffalo Bills safety Jairus Byrd among those ranks. Byrd and the Bills continue very far apart in contract negotiations and neither side appears willing to budge.
“I would be completely and utterly shocked if there was a deal done by Monday,” a league source told WGR-AM. “There are no talks going on. Someone would have to seriously cave.”
Byrd’s agent, Eugene Parker, is reportedly seeking top dollar for his client and he is unwilling to accept anything less than the premier-safety-caliber money that players like Eric Weddle and Dashon Goldson have recently received.
“The reason why Byrd is getting tagged is for the simple fact that they just can’t get a deal done,” another source told WGR-AM. “From what I understand, they’re pushing for numbers in and around what Eric Weddle is at and also keeping the Dashon Goldson deal in perspective, as well.”
If a deal is not reached by July 15, the pressure will be on Byrd to budge and sign his $6.9 million franchise tender.
Of course, if he takes the stance of his agent, he could decide that sitting out for an extended period of time is the best move. Whatever he decides, this is going to be an interesting stand off.