NFL: All-Pro LB Harrison, Steelers reach new deal
By ALAN ROBINSON
AP Sports Writer
PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison has reached terms on a $51.75 million, six-year contract that will make the NFL Defensive Player of the Year the second highest-paid player in franchise history.
The contract set to be announced Tuesday will pay Harrison a guaranteed $20 million — more than any other player in team history except Ben Roethlisberger. The quarterback signed a $102 million, eight-year contract last year that will pay him a guaranteed $36 million.
Harrison broke into the Steelers lineup in 2007 and had 8½ sacks. He had a Steelers-record 16 sacks in 15 games last season, and his 100-yard interception return for a TD in the Super Bowl helped the Steelers beat Arizona.