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New York Giants guard Justin Pugh was paying attention to the news that the Cleveland Browns are signing guard Joel Bitonio to a rich contract extension.
— Justin Pugh (@JustinPugh) March 9, 2017
That was Pugh’s response to the news that Bitonio is about to get handsomely paid. Bitonio’s extension with Cleveland is going to be worth $51.2 million.
The #Browns extension for G Joel Bitonio is a 6-year new contract worth $51.2M in full. The total guarantee is $23.7M
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2017
Former Giants lineman and current SB Nation contributor Geoff Schwartz was also paying attention:
Panthers/Giants need to sign Turner and Pugh before the price gets outrageous for guards https://t.co/NPOiT06yUj
— Geoff Schwartz (@geoffschwartz) March 9, 2017
Pugh, the Giants 2013 first-round draft pick, is currently set to make $8.821 million in 2017 while playing under the fifth-year option from his rookie contract. If he and the Giants are unable to work out a long-term deal, Pugh could be a free agent following next season.
Pugh, now entrenched at left guard after beginning his career at right tackle, was the Giants’ best lineman last season before missing five games with a knee injury. He has started 55 regular-season games with the Giants in four seasons.