The Denver Broncos were confident Matt Prater would be signed to a multiyear deal before training camp.

And they were right.

On Monday, the team announced Prater signed a four-year contract.  The Denver Post reports the deal with worth $13 million – including a $3 signing bonus.  Prater had skipped the team’s OTAs and mandatory minicamp while his agent and the team discussed a new deal.

The Denver Broncos have signed kicker Matt Prater to a four-year deal. (courtesy Jeffrey Beall)

Prater said he’s relieved the process is over.  During his Monday conference call with Denver media, Prater said:

“It feels amazing.  It’s something I’ve worked for since I was a little kid. Throughout the process it was kind of tough especially once practice and everything starts, I wanted to be there. In the end, I knew it was going to get done. The Broncos made it pretty easy and my agent did a great job so it wasn’t too bad of a process. I’m excited to be back. I’m very thankful to (Owner) Mr. Bowlen, (Executive V.P. of Football Operations John) Elway, the entire organization, the fans and everybody involved. It’s awesome to be out here.”

Prater added he’s eager to meet his new teammates, namely Peyton Manning:

“It was just tough because in the past, I’ve always been out here for the offseason program.  Seeing on the news all the guys together working out and getting the chemistry, the team chemistry, and building relationships – that was probably the most difficult part. Just the uncertainty of not knowing exactly what’s going to happen was a little difficult too.”

The Broncos placed the franchise tag on Prater back in March, though he never signed the one-year tender. He’s best remembered for his four game-winning field goals last season.

Prater will join his teammates July 25 for the opening of training camp.  The first practice, open to the public, is July 26.

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