The Indianapolis Colts took value of their star receiver today. It appears that T.Y. Hilton has agreed to a contract extension worth $65 million for five years, with $39 million guaranteed.
Colts general manager Ryan Grigson was extremely happy to ensure that Hilton remain a key component to the team. “His daily excellence on and off the field is a shining example of an individual striving for greatness and what it truly means to be a Colt,” said Grigson.
A third-round pick in 2012, Hilton appeared in his first Pro Bowl in 2014 and had a stellar season compiling 82 receptions, 1,345 yards and seven touchdowns. His accomplishments merited two back-to-back seasons of 1,000 receiving yards.
Affectionately referred to as “The Ghost,” Twitter was all a buzz:
#THEGHOST is here to stay for years to come.
MORE on @TYHilton13's contract extension: http://t.co/U9clWkwRZ2 pic.twitter.com/IEtjMRvPTo
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) August 13, 2015
“The Ghost" isn’t leaving Indianapolis anytime soon. The @Colts and T.Y. Hilton have agreed to terms on an extension. #ColtsCamp
— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) August 13, 2015
I love Indy. I love this organization. And this is a dream come true. THE 👻👻👻 is here to stay babyyy. ONE MISSION ONE GOAL #THEGHOST
— TY Hilton (@TYHilton13) August 13, 2015
Hilton boasts of global speed and is a constant threat to outscore any snap called by quarterback Andrew Luck. On the field, his presence expands defenses and opens numerous opportunities for Luck with the offense.
The Colts dispelled any notion of a Hilton replacement when they drafted rookie wide receiver Phillip Dorsett. It is clear that they made this contract a priority so the team and players can concentrate on the season opener. The deal leaves plenty of cap space for the Colts to hammer out a contract with their franchise quarterback.
The Hilton-Dorsett tandem will become a thorn in the side of defenses and a potential top duo threat. The Colts are giving their quarterback all the tools he needs to take this team further in the postseason.
As of this offseason, he has played in 46 career games with 26 starts. The deal is similar to that of the Green Bay Packers signing with receiver Randall Cobb.
It all appears to be a done deal and with $39M in guaranteed money, it’s a win-win for both sides. The Ghost will be roaming Lucas Oil Stadium for years to come.
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