The Buffalo Bills have landed one of the biggest prizes on the NFL free agent market, agreeing to terms with defensive end Mario Williams.
Williams has been in Buffalo since the free agency period began on Tuesday. ESPN reports the deal is for six years and up to $100 million, with $50 million guaranteed. The guaranteed money is the most for a defensive player in NFL history and the deal is the biggest overall contract in team history.
At a news conference Thursday afternoon in Orchard Park, Williams said he is "ecstatic" to be in Buffalo. He said he was "sold...immediately."
"You don't get many chances like this and opportunities to come in and be the guy who can help the team get across the hump, and that's definitely what I'm here for," said Williams.
"I'm just so excited," he added. "From day one, it's been nothing but love here."
The 27-year-0ld Williams was the first overall selection of the Houston Texans in the 2006 NFL Draft out of North Carolina State. Listed at 6'6", 292 lbs., Williams accumulated a franchise-best 53 sacks to go along with 241 tackles in six seasons with Houston. He is considered one of the premier pass rushers in the league.
The two-time Pro Bowl starter played just five games last season as a result of a torn chest muscle, but is said to be fully healthy.
Click the play button above to hear Thursday's news conference from One Bills Drive with Bills GM Buddy Nix, Williams, and head coach Chan Gailey.