The Patriots have rewarded linebacker Jerod Mayo with a five-year contract extension. New England gave Mayo the extension on Saturday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Mayo was the tenth overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. He was Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2008 and made his first Pro Bowl and All Pro team last season. His contract didn't run out until 2013, so Mayo likely took a less up front money than he could get as a free agent in exchange for security now.

The Cowboys and safety Gerald Sensabaugh have finalized a five-year contract extension worth approximately $22.5 million, $8 million of which is guaranteed. Sensabaugh, 28, has sought long-term job security ever since joining Dallas in 2009. He has been one of the most dependable and productive defenders this season after signing a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Cowboys in the summer.