The Pittsburgh Steelers announced on Wednesday that they have signed talented linebacker Alex Highsmith to a new five-year contract. Highsmith previously had one year left on his rookie deal that came with a $2.7 million salary in 2023.
Highsmith had a career year in 2022, playing in all 17 games and recording 14.5 sacks, 63 tackles, and 20 QB hits. His five forced fumbles were the most in the league.
“This means everything,” said Highsmith via Steelers’ official website. “I know I am a Pittsburgh Steeler through and through, and just to be a part of this amazing organization for four more years means the world to me, to my wife, to my whole family. This is where I want to be. This is where I want to play ball.”
The Steelers didn’t disclose the financial terms of the agreement, but ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Highsmith’s deal is actually a four-year, $68 million contract extension with $27.7 million guaranteed money. The 25-year-old player is set to make $38 million in the first two years of the new deal.
Alex Highsmith was selected by the Steelers in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Since then, he has played all 49 games, making 185 tackles and notching up 22.5 sacks.
