The Chicago Bears have re-signed kicker Cairo Santos, per Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune. The extension is worth $16 million over five years with a maximum price of $17.5 million. There is an option to opt out after three years, in which case, the final price would be $11 million.
Santos provided stability at the kicker position in Chicago for the first time since Robbie Gould was released in 2016. He hit 28 straight field goals without missing in 12 straight games. Both streaks marked franchise records for the Bears. He also hit 36 out of 37 extra point attempts.
Santos’ success was a bit of a surprise. He was signed to Chicago’s active roster from the practice squad just a month before the 2020 NFL Season as a replacement to the injured Eddy Pineiro. Without many expectations, the 29 year old kicker thrived despite tough kicking conditions in Chicago.
The last kicker Chicago signed to a long term deal was Cody Parkey, which ended in catastrophe. The hope is that Santos’ contract will reverse this trend. If he can continue his consistency, the Bears should have the kicker position locked up for five years to come.
Featured Image Courtesy of James Gilbert/Getty Images
You can “Like” The Game Haus on Facebook and “Follow” us on Twitter for more sports and esports articles from other great TGH writers, along with Jack!
“From Our Haus to Yours”
