The Cleveland Browns gave injured offensive tackle Joe Thomas additional money that will make him the highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL next season. Field Yates of ESPN reported that league sources informed him that the Browns amended Thomas’ contract this week, despite him being out for the season due to a triceps injury.
Under the amended deal, $3 million in new money will be given to Thomas in 2017 and 2018, including a $1.5 million roster bonus paid this past week. He was also given a $1.5 million raise for 2018 on his base salary. Adding his base salary and bonuses, Thomas will earn $13.5 million in cash in 2018, the highest salary for any NFL offensive lineman.
Previously, Los Angeles Chargers left tackle Russell Okung held the record with $12.5 million in cash earnings scheduled for 2018.
Thomas placed on IR after triceps injury
The Browns recently placed Thomas, a Pro Bowler in all 10 of his NFL seasons, on injured reserve after suffering a tricep injury in their 12-9 loss to the Tennessee Titans in Week 7. The injury ended Thomas’ streak of 10,363 straight snaps played to begin his career. The additional money might encourage Thomas to return next season. After the injury, Thomas said he will consult his family on whether to return to the NFL next season or retire. Thomas was the Browns’ third overall pick in 2007.
Injuries keep piling up for Giants
The New York Giants have placed starting center Weston Richburg on injured reserve after he did not play since suffering a concussion in Week 4. A second-round pick by the Giants in 2014 out of Colorado State, Richburg will become an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season. In a corresponding move, the Giants signed defensive back Tim Scott from their practice squad.
The Giants will take on the Aaron Donald and the Los Angeles Rams Sunday without their two starting offensive linemen, with Richburg and guard Justin Pugh both out with injuries.
The Giants will start Brett Jones at center while tackle Bobby Hart will fill in for Pugh. The Giants (1-6) were depleted due to injuries or suspensions.
Odell Beckham, Brandon Marshall and Dwayne Harris suffered season-ending injuries while the team recently suspended Janoris Jenkins and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie for violating team rules. The Giants are coming off a 24-7 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 7 where quarterback Eli Manning completed just 19-of-39 passes for 134 yards and a touchdown.
