The Buffalo Bills have used the early portion of this offseason to lock down their own home-grown talent. After slapping the franchise tag on safety Jairus Byrd earlier this month, the team has turned its attention to Leodis McKelvin.
Offseason Forecast: Bills
With the offseason under way, Around The League examines what's next for all 32 teams. Patrick Crawley tackles the Bills. **More ...**
NFL.com's Ian Rapoport and Albert Breer reported Saturday, citing a team source and a source close to McKelvin, that the talented return man have signed a four-year contract worth between $17 million and $20 million. The deal comes with $7.5 million in guarantees. FOXSports.com's Alex Marvez first reported the pact.
McKelvin turned out an NFL-best 18.7 yards on 23 punt returns in 2012. Two of those went for touchdowns. He produced 28.3 yards on 18 kickoff returns and brought electricity to the Bills' special teams unit.
McKelvin has emerged as one of the NFL's most dangerous return men, but it was believed he might bolt from Buffalo for the chance to play more cornerback elsewhere. He started just four games in the Bills' defensive backfield last season, pulling down one interception.
After re-upping with the Bills, we're sure to see more of McKelvin in 2013.
UPDATE: McKelvin's contract extension became official, the team announced Monday.
Follow Marc Sessler on Twitter @MarcSesslerNFL.