It’s not LaVar Arrington or Keyshawn Johnson but the news the Giants made yesterday in the long run might be more important to their success. They re-signed special teams demon David Tyree to a five-year contract that reflects the value the team places on his subtle and varied contributions.

Tyree was a restricted free agent and attracted interest from the Ravens, where Jim Fassel is the offensive coordinator and as head coach of the Giants saw what an impact Tyree can have on a game. The Giants secured his services by giving him a signing bonus of $1.5 million on a deal that averages nearly $1.5 million per year. According to Tyree’s agent, Mark Clouser, Tyree is now the highest-paid special teams player in NFL history.

“This recognizes what a special teams ace he is, but during the time of the contract he’s also going to have a nice contribution as a receiver,” Clouser said.

Tyree, 26, was a sixth-round draft pick out of Syracuse in 2003 and although he is a receiver by trade the Giants were attracted to his special teams exploits in college.

In his three years, Tyree has not disappointed. He was selected this past season to his first Pro Bowl as a special teams player. He is a relentless gunner who speeds down in coverage and routinely makes sure-handed tackles or is able to down a punt deep inside opposing territory.

As a receiver, Tyree has only 31 career catches for 418 yards and two touchdowns and was not much of a factor last season with only five catches.