For the longest time, the Pittsburgh Steelers did business in a very specific way. Players would get signed at specific times for specific values. Everything was mostly predictable with a few minor tweaks here and there.
Apparently, that game plan has been thrown out the window.
Over the past few days, the Steelers have inked both Darnell Washington and Nick Herbig to big-money extensions. These were early extensions, as opposed to the usual last-minute and end-of-summer deals that have been typical in the past.
It seems to be the new standard for the team, and it makes a lot of sense. It feels like the best way to do business... and it's what we've been begging for.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are wise to get critical contract extensions done early
The old way of working in Pittsburgh meant deals happened at the end of summer. Players had to prove they were committed to the team and at least show up for the Steelers to play ball on a new deal.
It led to many wasted practice days and drama ahead of the season. This business style is simpler and cleaner.
Now, you have two young members you are building this team around, happy and ready to work this summer. This only makes the team better.
Washington’s deal was mostly expected. He didn’t rock the boat with his numbers and solidified the tight end room for the next few years.
Herbig’s deal was something else. Suddenly jumping over so many veterans in terms of salary despite not being a full-time starter. It really points to this team wanting to keep their youth in core, even if the deals are unconventional.
It doesn’t sound like the new deals are done, either. Joey Porter Jr. was deemed the most likely to get a new deal this offseason and is still waiting. That figures to be closer to the top of the market, so there may be more room for negotiation there.
The team has also opened negotiations with Keeanu Benton. Time will tell whether a deal gets done, but this team is now committed to locking up its core players early. This means the focus over the summer will be just on winning in the fall.
It is a great move by the front office, and it should pay off for the team as training camp opens with even fewer distractions.
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