IRVING, Texas -- Defensive end/nose tackle Sean Lissemore made an interesting decision this week, one that made both him and the Cowboys happy.

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With his contract expiring in 2013, Lissemore elected to sign a three-year extension worth $6 million plus incentives. He will get $3.1 million guaranteed.

Lissemore, is a valued player among the Cowboys' coaches and front office personnel. With veteran ends Kenyon Coleman in the final year of his contract and Jason Hatcher signed through 2013, there's a possibility Lissemore could have tested the free-agent market or gained some leverage against the Cowboys by asking for a bigger contract because of some expiring contracts.

"I think that's the biggest thing, you never know," he said. "That's why you take the sure thing and a good thing when it comes your way."

If Lissemore becomes a starter in 2013 and outplays his contract, the Cowboys could do something.

The Cowboys reworked contracts in the past, nose tackle Jay Ratliff comes to mind, and quarterback Tony Romo is expected to get a contract extension.

But Lissemore wanted to remain in Dallas because he has a comfort level with his teammates and the coaching staff.

"I'm really happy," Lissemore said of the new contract. "It was something we were talking for a little bit and I wanted to get it knocked out and I had an opportunity to stay in Dallas."