Agent Andy Simms announced today that David McCourty, first-round draft choice, has just signed a five-year contract with the New England Patriots for $13.2 million. The NFL player becomes the second first-round choice to sign a deal, following wide receiver Dez Bryant who signed a contract with Dallas. On the other hand, Antonio Gates closed a deal to extend his contract with the San Diego Chargers for $36.1 million, which makes him the NFL’s highest paid tight end.

Carolina Panthers reached an agreement with quarterback Jimmy Clausen for a four-year contract and $2.53 million guaranteed. The contract signed included a fourth-year escalator for more than $2.85 million. New Orleans and Buffalo are also in the middle of negotiations, with the first one signing a one-year contract with quarterback Patrick Ramsey and the second reaching a deal with tackle Torrel Troup.

In other news, the Washington Redskins announced their training camp will start without offensive lineman Mike Williams, who will be out for the rest of the year. Artis Hickis is expected to take his spot. Meanwhile in Baltimore, rookie defensive tackle Terrence Cody passed his conditioning test after two attempts by running 25 yards, doubling back, resting 70 seconds and repeating twice.

Finally, a new lawsuit has been filed concerning the case that ended last year when the NFL players union agreed to pay retired players a total of $26 million for not caring for their commercial interests. Now, other former players like Paul Hornung, John Brodie and Marvin Cobb are suing because they believe the settlement should have been larger.