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The speculation is over. Keenan Allen signed an extension this evening, per a source, per Michael Gehlken.
Chargers, Keenan Allen strike 4-year extension worth more than $11M per season, source says. https://t.co/MbMzyGEbSm pic.twitter.com/hHCYntr3qn
— Michael Gehlken (@sdutGehlken) June 11, 2016
I'm told the four-year extension Keenan Allen agreed to with the #Chargers is worth $45M with over $24M in guarantees.
— Rand Getlin (@Rand_Getlin) June 11, 2016
Like his franchise QB, Allen will remain under contract through the teams control through 2019.
- In case you missed it: Does Keenan Allen deserve #1 WR money?
The answer is yes. Allen makes the offense go. It's that simple. When over 50% of your receptions go for 1st downs, you're a big deal. When you don't play for half of a season and the offense scores over a touchdown less, you're a big deal. Allen made an immediate impact as a rookie, and last year he was on pace to be 1 of the best receivers in the league. Through 8 games last year, his 67 receptions were tied for the 3rd most in the history of the NFL. If it wasn't for his injury history, I'm guessing the majority of the media would be praising this deal.
More contract details will leak out I'm sure but it's a smart move for Tom Telesco to keep a core player. With the cap rising, this could potentially look like a steal. If Allen continues to play like I think he can, this won't be his last big deal.