Chad Greenway became the latest linebacker to cash in with a big deal.

The Minnesota Vikings have signed the strong-side performer to a $41 million, five-year contract, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, a deal that includes $20 million guaranteed. That’s the reality of dealing with a player who has the franchise tag collar.

"Now, we can just go play football," Greenway said.

The team’s leading tackler for the last three seasons, Greenway needed a hefty guarantee because the franchise tag was to pay him $10.9 million this season. Now with Greenway taken care of, the Vikings need to turn their focus to running back Adrian Peterson.

And in Chicago, when practice at Halas Hall ends, Lance Briggs will take notice of Greenway’s deal and probably turn up the volume in his bid for a new contract. The six-time Pro Bowl performer is halfway through a $36 million, six-year deal.

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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune