On Monday, the New England Patriots announced that defensive tackle Kyle Love has signed his exclusive rights free agent tender, which is worth about $540,000 in 2012. However, there is a desire from both sides to give Love a new contract.
According to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald, Love and the Patriots are currently in discussions about a possible contract extension--likely for two years. After 2012, Love is expected to become a restricted free agent; meaning that he could sign an offer sheet with any team. The Patriots, meanwhile could match any offer presented.
Howe seems to think that if the two were to work out an extension, it would likely receive a second-round restricted tender, which would give him a little under two million guaranteed.
Love has the same agent as current Patriot Kyle Arrington and former Patriots Gary Guyton--who have both avoided the same sort of predicament Love finds himself in. If the two sides are able to come to agreement, Love would be given long-term security and injury insurance. Meanwhile, the Patriots would be able to avoid losing him in restricted free agency.
In two seasons with the Patriots, Love has started 14 games and has recorded 25 tackles and four sacks. He's an up and coming player and a notorious Bill Belichick favorite. Hopefully this inevitable happens, and Love is locked up as a Patriot.