Archives for March 8, 2003

In a move that indicates the Bengals won’t match the Bills’ offer to Takeo Spikes, the agent for Cowboys linebacker Kevin Hardy said Friday night his client has agreed in principle to a four-year deal in Cincinnati.

Buffalo is believed to have offered Spikes a six-year deal that gives him more guaranteed money than Brooking’s $11.2 million, and a contract that gives him more than Brooking’s $17.4 million over the first three years of the deal.

‘Sure, the Falcons surrendered their first-round draft pick to Buffalo, but when you’re drafting 23rd tell me where you find a wide receiver to step in and make an immediate difference. You don’t.’

‘The contract, negotiated by agent Todd France over a two-day period, is for six years and believed to be worth about $32 million. Spikes will earn over $17 million in the first three years of the contract.’

‘"I’m more than a deep threat. If given the opportunity I feel I can take a five-yard slant the distance also."’

‘Asked how serious he was about joining the Bills, Spikes said: “Yeah, I would not have come if it weren’t for real.”’

‘"We could have put together an offer sheet even if we didn’t make the trade, but yes there is more room (under the cap)," Bills general manager Tom Donahoe said after tendering the offer sheet.’