The 6-year, $92 million extension given to Philip Rivers by the Chargers was nothing less than surprising in my eyes. It’s not the fact that Rivers does not deserve it, because I disagree. I feel as though Rivers is an excellent quarterback and a staple in San Diego. Therefore, while many would say it’s enough money, I would have pushed for more if I were the agent. In order to fight for more money, you always need evidence to support your claim.
I think it would be appropriate to compare Rivers to Eli Manning. Manning was drafted first overall by the Chargers and Rivers was chosen 4th overall by the G-Men. The two teams swapped quarterbacks and here we are today. Manning recently signed a 7-year, $106.9 million contract.
Philip Rivers – 52 games played, 62.3% completion rate, 10,697 yards , 78 touchdowns, 36 interceptions
Eli Manning – 73 games played, 55.9% completion rate, 14,623 yards, 98 touchdowns, 74 interceptions
So, in order to make my case to get Philip more money, I did a little research to see how he would do if he had indeed played 73 games instead of 52. (all of these numbers are based on Philips averages):
Philip Rivers – 73 games played, 62.3% completion rate, 15,016 yards, 109 touchdowns, 50 interceptions
With these numbers, Rivers beats Mannings’ statistics in all of the categories mentioned! The only snag is that Rivers’ deal is 6 years and Manning has a 7 year contract.