New York, N.Y.–Damon Harrison has worked extremely hard to become one the best interior defensive linemen in the National Football League and is now going to be compensated for those efforts as he signed a free-agent contract with the New York Giants this week.

The former William Penn football player (2008-2011) from Lake Charles, La. inked a five-year contract worth $46.25 million ($9.25 million per year), including $24 million guaranteed and $30 million over the first three seasons of the agreement.

He spent his first four years in the professional ranks with the New York Jets, who paid him $2.2356 million as a restricted free agent this past season.  For the Jets, the undrafted Harrison tallied 193 total tackles (105 solos, 88 assists) in addition to 1.5 sacks, two pass breakups, and one forced fumble.  In 2015, the defensive tackle managed 72 stops, and was ranked the No. 1 run defender by Pro Football Focus with a grade of 97.3.

Back in his days in the navy and gold, Harrison was a three-time all-MSFA Midwest League selection (first team as a senior).  His senior campaign included 60 tackles with a team-high 8.5 for loss.

Story provided by Wade Steinlage