The Falcons extended White’s deal on Thursday, getting him under contract through the 2018 season. The NFL Network reports over the next five years, White can earn up to $30 million, with $18 million of that coming in the next two seasons. His old deal in ‘09 had him at $48 million over six years.
White has gone to four Pro Bowls. He’s been durable and productive as quarterback Matt Ryan’s most reliable target. Last season was the only time he was hampered by injury (ankle), but it still kept him out only three full games.
The Falcons’ passing offense lost its punch with both White and their now more explosive younger wideout, Julio Jones, also hobbled in 2013. Now they need White and Jones to stay healthy as a dynamic duo again in the wake of future Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez’s retirement. It sets up White and Jones to be targeted more with the Falcons going more tight end by committee.
White will try to rebound from a 63-catch, 711-yard, 3-touchdown season, his worst totals since 2006. Given his consistent history of production and quick healing, it’s a fair bet that he’ll do that.
