THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

INDIANAPOLIS -- Indianapolis Colts centre Jeff Saturday has agreed to a three-year deal hours before he was expected to become a free agent.

Saturday's agent, Ralph Cindrich, confirmed the deal to The Associated Press on Thursday night.

He didn't disclose financial details but says the deal will make the three-time Pro Bowler one of the highest-paid centres in the NFL.

The move came a day after the NFL salary cap increased from US$123 million to US$127 million. It was also a day after the Colts officially released Marvin Harrison, freeing up US$6 million under the salary cap.

Several key Colts players were slated to become free agents Friday.