Report: Patriots, Edelman closing in on contract extension

The New England Patriots and wide receiver Julian Edelman are closing in on a contract extension, NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reports, citing sources.

Edelman, who's long been one of Tom Brady's best and most reliable weapons, is scheduled to count for just $5.75 million against the salary cap in the final year of his contract this season.

A new agreement between the two sides, presumably giving Edelman some long-term security and a significant raise, is expected to be finalized in the next few days, Garafolo adds.

Edelman all but assured himself of the payday and a spot in New England's long-term plans with the productive year he put together en route to a Super Bowl LI title in 2016.

Suiting up for all 16 regular-season games, he recorded a team-high 98 receptions for 1,106 yards and three touchdowns.

The former seventh-round pick will enter his ninth season in New England ranking sixth in catches (425) and 10th in yards (4,540) among the franchise's all-time leaders.