The Indianapolis Colts have signed starting strongside linebacker Tyjuan Hagler to a one-year contract extension through 2008, a move that keeps the three-year veteran off the restricted free agent market. The deal is worth $1.417 million, which is the same amount of the restricted free agent qualifying offer the Colts would have made to Hagler before the start of the free agent signing period in the spring. Without the extension, other teams could have pursued Hagler and perhaps signed him to an offer sheet which would have forced the Colts to either match it or pass on it and allow the three-year veteran to depart. Barring another extension, Hagler will be eligible for unrestricted free agency in the spring of 2009. By retaining Hagler, the Colts assured that the trio of starting linebackers from a defense that statistically ranked No. 3 in the league this season will return intact for 2008.