Bucs sign fullback Askew to four-year contract extension

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
In print: Friday, May 16, 2008

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TAMPA — Fullback B.J. Askew, who provided a major boost for the running game after joining the Bucs in 2007, signed a four-year contract extension, according to agent Scott Smith of XAM Sports.

Askew, who was entering the final season of a two-year contract, is signed through 2012. The deal is believed to be worth more than $8-million and include a signing bonus of $2-million.

Though the team remains in the midst of contract standoffs with running back Earnest Graham and quarterback Jeff Garcia, Askew is one of several young, core players the Bucs had expressed an interest in extending.

Askew, 27, had no carries last season but was a stout lead blocker credited by coaches with making a difference in the running game. He caught 18 passes for 175 yards.

"He feels like it's a good fit for him," Smith said of Askew. "And he feels like his style of play is appreciated in Tampa."

ARENA TO USE REPLAY: The Arena Football League board of directors unanimously approved instant replay for the 2008 playoffs, the first time in the league's 22 seasons that instant replay will be used. Two challenges are granted in regulation, and another in OT. "I'm excited about instant replay," Storm coach Tim Marcum said. "This will aide the referees."

Browns: Cleveland, thin in the secondary, signed free-agent defensive back Jereme Perry to a one-year deal.

JAGUARS: Defensive tackle Rob Meier, who is replacing three-time Pro Bowl player Marcus Stroud as a starter, signed a four-year extension. Meier said it will pay more than the $2.095-million he was due in the final year of his previous contract. Meier's deal comes as defensive end Paul Spicer seeks a new contract.

Redskins: Kick returner Jerome Mathis was released and undrafted rookie defensive end J.T. Mapu was signed.

Times staff writer Keith Niebuhr contributed to this report, which used information from Times wires.