Veteran inside linebacker D’Qwell Jackson signed a four-year, $22 million deal with the Indianapolis Colts.
Owner Jim Irsay first announced the signing Thursday morning on his personal Twitter account. The deal includes $11 million guaranteed.
Jackson brings leadership and stability to the middle of the Colts defense and could spell the end of undersized overachiever Pat Angerer’s career with Indianapolis.
The Colts traded their first-round pick to the Cleveland Browns and are expected to be aggressive in free agency.
Jackson, a widely respected team captain in Cleveland, was released last Wednesday by the Browns, who were on the hook for a $4.1 million roster bonus due March 15. He visited the Miami Dolphins and Tennessee Titans before signing with the Colts. Jackson reunites with fired head coach Rob Chudzinski, who joined Chuck Pagano’s coaching staff last month.
Jackson was seventh in the NFL in tackles (141) last season.
The move was the first major transaction for new general manager Ray Farmer.
. “D’Qwell is the epitome of class, leadership and professionalism. Every day of his NFL career, D’Qwell has been a solid representative of the Browns and the city of Cleveland, both between the lines on Sundays and off the field in our area community.”
Jackson, the Browns’ second-round pick in 2006 out of Maryland, started 96 games in eight seasons for the Browns.
“To the people of Cleveland and Browns fans everywhere: 8 years ago I began a journey that blessed me with the opportunity to be a part of a wonderful organization and community,” Jackson said in a statement. “I want to take this time to thank each and every one of you for opening your arms and hearts to my family and I, and for making Cleveland an easy place to love and call home. It’s been an honor playing in front of you.”
Jackson, 30, signed a contract extension last year worth $42.5 million — including $19 million in guarantees and bonuses. In addition to the $4.1 million roster bonus, Jackson was set to make $3.93 million this season. His salaries for 2015 and 2016 were $7.73 million and $7 million, respectively.