The five-year pact increases wages 25 percent and adds health and welfare benefits.

Both sides said they were optimistic that an agreement could be reached before a deadline of next May to renew the five-year pact.

Then Russian officials disclosed plans to sign a five-year, $40 billion economic pact with Iraq.

Ewing, who is seeking a multiyear deal worth around $60 million, wants long-term security in the form of a four- or five-year pact.

Today's agreement replaces a five-year pact that will expire at the end of this year.

Henderson is in the last year of a five-year pact.

Volek is in the fourth year of a five-year pact he said was worth $160,000 per season.

The five-year pact has options for two three-year extensions.

The 49ers had initially bargained for a five-year pact.

Members of the unions are expected to meet on Sunday to ratify the proposed five-year pact.