[mmarra82]

15 players signed deal for Stage 9, top signings were:

Shane Burton, DT - Burton signed a big contract with Arizona, 4 years, $10.37 million. Burton started 16 games last season for Carolina and recorded 44 solo tackles and 4 sacks. The signing of Burton will certainly end the chance of the Cards signing last year's starter, Derrick Ransom. Ransom statistically had a better season than Burton, 59 tackles, and 6 sacks.

Na'il Diggs, OLB - Diggs gets the big contract from Detroit, $10.49 million over 4 years. Diggs had a solid season in his only year in Chicago, 84 tackles, and 5 sacks. It will be interesting to see what Detroit does with their linebacker situation, last year they signed Carlos Emmons who plays the strong side as well. They appear to have the make up of using a 3-4 defense this season.

Keyshawn Johnson, WR - It looks as though Indianapolis is trying to soften the blow of losing Marvin Harrison with this signing. Johnson signed for 3 years, $2.34 million. Johnson caught just 34 passes last season with Kansas City in 10 games. This will be Johnson's third team in 3 years.

Kenny Peterson, DT - The Jets took quick action to Ferguson being taken off the market, they sign Peterson to a 3 year deal worth $2.50 million. Peterson is entering his 3rd season and has been a durable player for the Packers, starting all 32 games. Peterson has posted 102 tackles and 2.5 sacks in his two seasons.

Heath Evans, FB - The Browns were able to keep Evans with a 3 year deal and $2.21 million. Evans is primarily a blocking fullback, and with the 1-2 punch of Green and Suggs, the Browns hope he continues to do so.

Other Signings:
Roman Oben, T - 2 years, $1.35 million with New England, from Chicago.
William Bartee, CB - 3 years, $2.02 million with New England, from Seattle.
Terrell Smith, FB -resigned with Oakland, 4 years, $4.39 million.
Cornelius Griffin, DT - resigned with the Jets, 2 years, $1.38 million.