McFadden agrees to 2-year deal

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With Kurt Warner secure as their quarterback, the Arizona Cardinals went out to help the defense by reaching a deal with cornerback Bryant McFadden.

Sando: Cards Upgraded

Bryant McFadden gives the Cardinals a physical cornerback to pair opposite top cover man Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, writes Mike Sando. Blog

• Network: NFL Nation

McFadden agreed to a two-year, $10 million contract that has a simple structure. McFadden will make $5 million in 2009 and $5 million in 2010. A source indicated that the entire salary for 2009 is guaranteed.

As one of the best players remaining in free agency, McFadden had some interesting options. He could have returned to the Pittsburgh Steelers as a starter or signed with Philadelphia or Miami, which both expressed interest.

The 27-year-old cornerback came into his own in 2008 and helped the Steelers win a Super Bowl ring. He started eight games and had two interceptions, but he played particularly well during the final weeks of the season and during the playoffs.

A former second-round pick, McFadden had 18 starts in four seasons with the Steelers.

John Clayton is a senior writer for ESPN.com

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John Clayton

NFL senior writer

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• Senior NFL writer and commentator
• Joined ESPN in 1995
• Member of the writers' wing of the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio