Steelers sign David DeCastro to multi-year contract extension
The biggest contract extension discussed during the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offseason is finally in the books.
#Steelers G David DeCastro’s new, 6-year deal is worth $58.07M, source said. So, $10M per year in new money tacked on to 2016.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 8, 2016
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Steelers have locked up offensive guard, David DeCastro, on a six-year deal. His new contract is worth a little over $58 million, making him one of the highest paid at his position. Keeping DeCastro in Pittsburgh locks up another core member of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger‘s offensive line for years to come.
https://twitter.com/steelers/status/774010136453079040?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet
Selected in the first round of the 2012 draft, DeCastro has been invaluable in protecting the Steelers’ franchise quarterback. Ending his 2015 season on a high note, DeCastro was awarded All-Pro honors, along with the first Pro Bowl nomination of his career.
DeCastro’s presence in Pittsburgh for over the next half decade keeps the best Steelers’ offensive line in many years in tact. Not only have they been crucial in protecting Roethlisberger, but they have created big opportunities on the ground for Le’Veon Bell and DeAngelo Williams.
The offensive guard’s 2015 campaign was as impressive as anyone at his position. In nearly 600 snaps, he relinquished only 1.5 sacks and penalized three times. In comparison, Baltimore Ravens’ guard, Marshal Yanda, perhaps the best in the league, gave up only half a sack in over 700 pass attempts with three penalties
DeCastro waited patiently all offseason while his teammates received contracts and more money. His patience paid off in a huge contract extension that he is truly deserving of. Barring anything unfortunate, DeCastro is expected to pick up where he left off in the 2015 season.
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Signing a key piece of their offense to a long-term deal, the Steelers keep making smart moves with their money. David DeCastro has the capability to be a Hall of Fame offensive lineman as his career unfolds, and, hopefully, his career involves a few Lombardi trophies along the way.