MAULERS RE-SIGN MARCONI, FRANCHISE TAG GATLIN

MINNEAPOLIS - New owner Thomas Paterniti made a huge, if not surprising move Thursday, by extending his franchise QB Rocco Marconi, as the two have agreed in principle to a 3-season, $15 million deal that would make Marconi possibly the highest-paid quarterback in the league next season. But, explains, Paterniti, the move was more than just a business decision.

“Of course Marconi has all of the prototypical attributes and qualities we look for in a QB," Paterniti said. "But beyond that, I can really relate to him as a fellow Italian American, a blue-collar, hardworking guy who has repeatedly shown a commitment to both his team and his community.”

Marconi too has expressed excitement about the new ownership and the new direction of the team.

“Mr. Walsh was a tough competitor whom I always respected and admired, but I definitely felt like the offense got short-changed last season in terms of talent," Marconi said. "Mr. Paterniti and I have had several long conversations about the direction of the team, and I am very excited to see a more offensive-minded owner and coach take the helm of this great organization.”

Paterniti has made several stops on national and local media outlets and has been outspoken about his commitment to surround Marconi with more offensive weapons. He is also expected to install a more efficient, up-tempo offense this offseason. That promise carries with it a huge challenge for his star QB, one which Marconi understands all too well.

“There’s definitely a synergy there,” Marconi said. “But it also puts a big responsibility on my shoulders. Mr. Paterniti has committed to adding great weapons to the offense, so it is really up to me to step up my game, both on and off the field.”

Asked to elaborate, Marconi was short and direct.

“Leadership,” he said, “Leadership and playmaking – that is what I need to bring to this team right now.”

The Maulers have not neglected their defense, however, as owner Thomas Paterniti also applied his franchise tag to safety Billy Joe Gatlin, Thursday.

“Billy Joe is a great player, a leader on our defense,” Paterniti said. “We are thrilled to have him back for at least another season.”

Unable to extend Jeb Gatlin, Paterniti did express regret at potentially breaking up the pair of brothers, but hinted that they may seek to reunite the two in free agency if the price is right.

Next up for the Maulers is the rookie draft, but owner Thomas Paterniti isn’t giving anything away.

“Everything’s on the table,” he said. “Literally any position or we may even trade the pick. Ultimately, whoever we pick, we are excited about adding a terrific player to our roster. We then look eagerly towards resigning our own restricted free agents, Marcus Campbell and Koma Keleka. We’re trying to create an exciting product on the field and a family feel in the locker room, so taking care of as many of our own as we can is a big priority for us!”

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