Brees signs NFL record deal

New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees has signed a five-year US$100 million contract extension – a record in the NFL.

In 2011, Brees set the NFL single-season records with 468 completions, 5,476 yards passing and a completion percentage of 71.2.

Brees led the Saints to their first ever franchise Superbowl title in 2009, collecting the MVP trophy in the process.

The 33-year-old confirmed the deal had been completed via Twitter, which will see him earn a guaranteed $60m.

“What Drew has accomplished in his time with the Saints, he deserves to be the highest-paid player in the league,” Saints general manager Mickey Loomis said in a statement.

“We are excited to have this deal done and behind us and look forward to the next five years with Drew as our quarterback.”

The Saints open their 2012-13 NFL campaign when they host the Washington Redskins on September 9.