Report: Cowboys sign T Colombo

Dec 25, 2008 - 4:55 AM DALLAS (Ticker) -- The Dallas Cowboys signed offensive tackle Marc Colombo to a four-year contract extension through 2012 on Wednesday, according to a report by the Dallas Morning News.

Colombo, the Cowboys' starting right tackle, would have been eligible for unrestricted free agency in March. Instead, the newspaper reports he inked a deal worth $22 million with $11.5 million guaranteed.

"I just love being a Dallas Cowboy," Colombo told the Morning News. "I love everything about it. I definitely didn't want to leave my offensive line. I'd die for those guys. The thought of going to some other team and another line wasn't an option for me. I'm glad the Cowboys stepped up to the plate. I thank them very much."

Colombo, 30, has started in 47 consecutive games for the Cowboys, who signed the former first-round draft selection in November 2005.

The 6-8, 315-pound Colombo has appeared in 70 games over parts of seven seasons with Dallas and the Chicago Bears.