Javon locked in for the next 5 years?

[Randall]

Walker secured for next 5 years

By Bill Williamson

Denver Post Staff Writer

Article Last Updated: 02/15/2007 11:13:23 PM MST

 

 

 

When the Broncos signed Javon Walker to a six-year contract last spring, the team had protection if the standout receiver didn't recover sufficiently from a 2005 knee injury while with Green Bay.

 

However, Walker, who was Denver's most productive offensive player in 2006, proved his surgically repaired knee was fully recovered, justifying Denver's decision to trade a second-round pick for him last April.

It was Walker's impressive first season that caused the Broncos to trigger the final five years of his contract. In recent days, Denver exercised the option bonus that was due Thursday. Had Denver not exercised the option, Walker would have become a free agent when the NFL league year begins March 2.

 

As part of his $43 million deal, Walker was due $10.7 million this offseason with the majority due Thursday. Another portion is due next year. Once Walker proved he was healthy, the Broncos were certain to exercise the option with the aim of keeping him for the long term. He had 69 catches for 1,084 yards and eight TDs last season.

 

Friends say Walker's spirits have improved in recent weeks following the shooting death of teammate Darrent Williams on Jan. 1. Walker was sitting next to Williams in a limousine at the time.