Falcons Sign Vick to 10-Year Extension

Michael Vick became the richest player in the NFL by agreeing to call Atlanta home for the next decade.

The Falcons’ star quarterback signed a 10-year, $130-million contract extension Thursday that guarantees him an NFL-record $37 million in bonuses.

“You know, making a commitment says a lot, not just to me, but to our team,” Vick said with a smile. “It means a lot to me.”

Vick’s contract surpasses the $98-million deal Indianapolis quarterback Peyton Manning signed in March -- although Manning’s contract is for seven years. Manning was guaranteed $34.5 million in bonuses.

Falcon General Manager Rich McKay and Vick’s agent, Joel Segal, began negotiations more than two months ago. They reached an agreement in principle Monday afternoon.

Vick signed the deal 20 minutes before an afternoon news conference to announce the extension.

“A lot of guys come into the league, they bounce around and never really find a home,” Vick said. “But I’m very excited to know that I’ll be here and have an opportunity to bring a Super Bowl to this city.”

The No. 1 overall draft pick in 2001, Vick has a 24-12-1 career record.

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Marc Bulger said that he’s ready to return from a bruised shoulder, good news for a suddenly feeble St. Louis Ram offense that totaled one touchdown during the two games he sat out.

“When you’ve got your best players on the field, you feel a lot better, no question about it,” defensive tackle Tyoka Jackson said. “He’s a Pro Bowl quarterback in my opinion.”

Bulger threw some on Monday, and knew at that point he’d be ready. He resumed practicing Thursday.

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Louisiana State Coach Nick Saban kept the Miami Dolphins on hold, apparently still hesitant about making the leap to the NFL.

Saban, who has turned down other chances to join the pros, had not yet responded to an offer he received Wednesday to coach the Dolphins.

Saban told LSU Athletic Director Skip Bertman he might need until today to decide whether to take over one of the NFL’s worst teams.

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Vinny Testaverde appreciates owner Jerry Jones saying the Dallas Cowboys consider him their starting quarterback for next season, but Testaverde is not sure he wants to do it.

He’s not sure he wants to retire, either, but at age 41 figures it’s at least something to think about. He has played every game this season, starting all but one, and will start Sunday against the Washington Redskins

“After 18 seasons, you have to give it some consideration,” Testaverde said. “When I get that time to just sit down and reflect back on things I’ll come up with a decision.”

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Buffalo Bill running back Willis McGahee sat out his second consecutive practice because of a bruised and hyperextended right knee and is questionable for Sunday’s game at San Francisco.... The Arizona Cardinals gave strong safety Adrian Wilson a $21-million, five-year contract extension, which included a bonus of between $4.5 million and $5 million.