Colts sign 3rd round pick Burns

By John Onan  |   Friday, July 22, 2005  |  Comments( 0 )

Indianapolis Colts
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The Indianapolis Colts announced on Thursday that they've agreed to terms on a three year contract with defensive lineman Vincent "Sweet Pea" Burns, out of the University of Kentucky. The 6-foot-2 267 pound Burns was the 92nd overall selection in this past April's draft. The deal calls for the former Wildcat standout to be paid $1.39 million over three seasons, which includes a $464,100 signing bonus.

Vincent Burns' agent, Hadley Engelhard, who also represents Colts cornerback Nick Harper, noted that his experience dealing with the team helped speed up negotiations. The length of the contract was of major importance to Burns and his agent. "The three-year deal was one of the most important things we wanted…Some guys in that round were signing four- and even five-year deals. So, presuming there's a new collective bargaining agreement in the works, Burns can be eligible to become a restricted free agent after only three seasons."

Before joining the Indianapolis Colts, Burns was a two-time All-SEC selection for the Kentucky Wildcats. He led the conference in tackles for loss with 18 as a junior. He finished his college career with 168 tackles and 5 ˝ sacks as a three year starter.

Colts coach Tony Dungy expects Burns to help provide depth to a defensive line that ranked among the NFL leaders in sacks and quarterback pressures. On draft day, Dungy compared "sweet pea" to a young John Randle, a player the coach helped turn into an All-Pro while he was defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings in the mid 90's.
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