John Sullivan Signs Five-Year Contract Extension With Minnesota Vikings

One of the few bright spots on the Minnesota Vikings' roster this season is going to get paid.

Center John Sullivan, who has been the Vikings' best and most consistent offensive lineman, has inked a 5-year, $25 million contract extension with the team, according to Tom Pelissero of 1500 ESPN in the Twin Cities.

Sullivan was the Vikings sixth-round pick (178th overall) in the 2008 NFL Draft out of the University of Notre Dame. If you've read Pelissero's game recaps this season, Sullivan consistently grades out the highest among the offensive linemen, and has taken great strides this season after having his struggles in 2009 and 2010.

It appears that Sullivan is, after a bit of a hiccup, ready to continue the Vikings' recent tradition of outstanding center play that they've had the past couple of decades, starting with Jeff Christy and continuing on with Matt Birk and now Sullivan.

Sullivan would have been a free agent following this season, but that's something the Vikings don't have to worry about any more now. According to Pelissero, the extension will give Sullivan $10 million in guaranteed money.

Congratulations to John Sullivan on his new contract, and here's hoping for continued improvement from him going forward.