Mankins ‘ecstatic’ over new contract

By Danny Picard
CSNNE.com Staff ReporterFollow @dannypicard
FOXBORO -- Patriots offensive lineman Logan Mankins talked to the media after Sunday's practice, marking the first time he spoke since signing his new six-year contract with the team.

Needless to say, he was all smiles.

@font-facefont-family: "Times New Roman";p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormalmargin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; table.MsoNormalTablefont-size: 10pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; div.Section1page: SectioIts great. Im really happy I know Im staying here forhopefully the rest of my career, said Mankins. I just want to thank theKrafts and their family, coach Belichick, and the guys upstairs. Im glad thisis done with, and Im very happy.

Im happy with it. Im ecstatic. This doesnt feel realyet, so I dont know how to take it yet. But Im very happy to be here.

Mankins said he wasn't involved in any of the negotiations, and "had no idea" that anything was happening until he got the call when it was done.

While glad that he no longer has to worry about a new contract, Mankins is determined to prove to the Patriots that he's worth all the money.

Thats one of the things I told my wife," said Mankins. "I was like, now Ihave to make sure I earn it. I dont want to be one of those guys that shows upto collect his check, or one of those guys that gets hurt every year. Sohopefully I can stay healthy and give my best effort.