The Pittsburgh Steelers announced Wednesday that linebacker Alex Highsmith has agreed to a contact extension, keeping him under contract through the 2027 season. Sources told ESPN details of the four-year, $68 million deal. Highsmith, who was already under contract in 2023, will make $38 million over the first two new years of the pact.

Highsmith said via the team’s website: “This means everything. 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. I am unbelievably grateful. I am super thankful to be here and can’t wait to get to work. I am excited .. This organization, it’s the history. Everyone here, it’s a top-notch organization. It’s an amazing place to play. I love playing on this defense. I love the coaching staff. I love everything about it. I am so thankful to (team president) Mr. (Art) Rooney, (general manager) Omar (Khan) for allowing me to be here for another four years. I am ready to get after it and get to work .. I am ready to get going at training camp. I know Steelers Nation will be there in full effect. It’s here and I am excited. I am ready to get to work.”

The 25-year-old logged a career-high 63 combined tackles, 14.5 sacks, five forced fumbles and a pass defensed in 17 starts last season. The third-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft totaled 185 total tackles, 22.5 sacks and six forced fumbles over his first 49 appearances with the Steelers.  The Steelers will report to training camp July 26 at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pa.

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