Meester gets extension from Jaguars

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Nov. 4 (UPI) -- The Jacksonville Jaguars have signed center Brad Meester to a five-year contract extension.

The Florida Times-Union reported the deal is worth #13 million.

Meester, a second-round draft pick in 2000 out of Northern Iowa, is the only player in team history to start the first 56 games of his career. The 6-3, 295-pounder began his career at left guard, but switched to center this season.

He wants pass protection for rookie quarterback Byron Leftwich given a higher priority.

"We've got to do a better job of protecting some things," Meester told the paper. "Anything that happens in the pocket, that is obviously our job."

"Brad has been one of the most consistent performers on this team," said Coach Jack Del Rio. "His approach is very professional and we're happy to have him signed up."

The durable Meester has missed only three offensive snaps in four seasons. He is three starts away from breaking the team record of 59 consecutive starts, held by former Jaguars linebacker Kevin Hardy.