I can't remember this type of thing being reported in the past, extensions for NFL commentators that is. ESPN announced extensions for some of their big names in NFL coverage:

Adam Schefter, Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN NFL insiders, sign multiyear deals - Richard Deitsch - SI.com
For those who enjoy Kiper Jr. on the NFL Draft, the following will be good news: Kiper Jr. signed a six-year deal that will keep him at ESPN through the summer of 2018. Schefter signed a five-year extension that runs through the summer of 2017. Clayton and Werder each signed four-year extensions. Why did ESPN lock up this quartet of NFL talent? "The NFL is 12 months a year and our fans cannot get enough news and information," said Mark Gross, an ESPN senior vice president and executive producer.

They also recently extended Stuart Scott a couple days as well. So what do you think about the Silver Fox getting the longest extension? Which of these is your favorite? I've got a fan poll and additional comments from Gross on each of these guys, after the jump...

Were are some quotes from ESPN VP Mark Gross on three of the commentators:

Mel Kiper:

"Nobody personifies the NFL draft like Mel Kiper," Gross said. "He's incredibly well-respected by viewers and teams."

Adam Schefter:

"This guy has changed the way NFL is reported in my opinion," Gross said. "To me, he is one of the more impact guys at the company."

Ed Werder:

"You won't just be hearing him on the Cowboys," Gross said. "You'll be hearing him on the Jets, Packers, Saints and so on. He's got a lot of contacts and he's a well respected guy."

I can't say I know about Werder but I do like Schefter and Clayton. Schefter seems to get breaking news the quickest may times though I'm not sure I would say he has been a game changer as Gross suggests.

Clayton is usually good for some bit size analysis but his geeky appearance is hard to swallow sometimes when talking about a sport that thrives on toughness.