NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A person familiar with the deal says the New Orleans Saints and center Max Unger have agreed on a multiyear extension.

The person spoke to The Associated Press Thursday night on condition of anonymity because the deal has not been announced.

Unger, acquired by New Orleans before last season in a trade that sent star tight end Jimmy Graham to Seattle, was entering the final season of his previous contract, which was set to count more than $6 million against the salary cap. His extension could provide the Saints with more space under the salary cap this season on the heels of the club's agreement to sign free agent defensive end Paul Kruger.

The Times-Picayune/NOLA.com first reported Unger's extension.

Unger started every game for the Saints last season and is entering his eighth NFL season. He has been elected twice to Pro Bowls, both times when he was with Seattle.

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