Stevie Johnson, the first Bills receiver to go over 1,000 yards in consecutive seasons, has signed a long-term deal with Buffalo today, the team reports.

While the contract—five years, $36.25 million, $19.5 million guaranteed—is solid market value for the Bills, the real excitement surrounding the return of Stevie Johnson is that a marquee soon-to-be unrestricted free agent, who’s built a stronger personal brand than any Bill in recent memory, remains committed to the team and the city.

“I want to thank the city of Buffalo, because I represent you guys,” Johnson said at this morning’s press conference according to a tweet from WGR 550 Bills beat reporter Joe Buscaglia.

Buffalo quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, who signed a long-term deal mid-way through last season, may be the most excited of Johnson’s teammates in regard to today’s signing. Sporting a mohawk haircut and “He’s Back” shaved into his head—rather hastily etched by his wife, Liza—Fitzpatrick is thrilled to have his top target back in the fold for the coming years.

Even though the Bills finished 1-8 after beginning the 2011 season 5-2, the organization made a commendable move today in securing one of the team’s most talented and marketable players without brutally overpaying.