When you want a player, paying the right price just may get them to sign. The San Francisco 49ers signed free agent cornerback Nate Clements to an eight-year, $80 million deal, which is one of the highest contracts for a defensive back in NFL history. Clements signed with the 49ers because he felt that they were headed in the right direction and could immediately contend for the playoffs this season.

"This is Year Seven for me, and I've never even had a taste of the playoffs," said Clements. "I'm a competitor by nature, and I just want to get a taste at that next level."

Clements had been hoping to receive a better deal than what Champ Bailey received in 2004 from the Denver Broncos, and he got it. Clements had made the Pro Bowl twice during his six-year stay with the Buffalo Bills, but the team was not able to make the postseason.

The 49ers didn't stop there, as they also signed safety Michael Lewis from the Philadelphia Eagles. Lewis will start in the secondary along with Clements, who will immediately improve the 49ers defense.

"I feel that we can definitely make a difference," Clements said of his arrival with Lewis. "We bring a lot of intangibles with our game to the table. We can both run, cover, aren't afraid to hit, and we just go out there and make plays."

49ers head coach Mike Nolan believes that both signings represent what the organization is about.

"Free agency is about adding good players with character to our team," Nolan said. "I am confident that Nate and Michael will help make us better. Players have a choice in free agency. It is a compliment to our players and fans that Nate and Michael wanted to be with the 49ers."

Despite still having playoff hopes in Week 16, the 49ers gave up a league-worst 412 points last season. The 49ers made the biggest defensive splash in free agency today, but Clements' former team made the biggest offensive splash.