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BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) - Cornerback Nate Clements' plan to pursue a lucrative contract on the free agent market was put on hold Wednesday when the Buffalo Bills designated him their franchise player.
The move was expected and allows the Bills to retain the rights to Clements by offering the five-year starter and 2004 Pro Bowl selection a one-year contract worth $5.89 million.
"We consider Nate a valuable member of our defense and believe he will play an important role in re-establishing our defense as one of the toughest units in the league," general manager Marv Levy said in a press release. Levy added he remains optimistic the Bills can negotiate a long-term deal with Clements, who was considered one of the prime defensive backs on the market.
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