Pittsburgh Steelers OT Gilbert Extension Smart, Not Popular
Nov 24, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) passes behind the blocking of tackle Marcus Gilbert (77) against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
The Pittsburgh Steelers don’t negotiate contracts during the regular season. Period. But, that doesn’t prevent them from negotiating during the preseason and finding ways to lock up a key player or two before their own deadline. Marcus Gilbert could be the next Steeler to lock up a long term deal.
Ed B of the PPG tweeted on Monday that the Steelers were working on an extension with Gilbert and could have one done sometime this week.
#Steelers trying to sign OT Marcus Gilbert to contract extension. Could be done this week
— Ed Bouchette (@EdBouchette) August 11, 2014
I might be the only one out there, but I think it’s a smart move. However, based on reactions of Ed’s tweet and just the general disgruntled attitude Steeler Nation sometimes has towards the front office, this is not a popular move amongst fans.
@EdBouchette @PittsburghPG Maybe if they hurry they can sign Mike Adams too, before some other 8-8 team does.
— Doctor W (aka "Bones") (@LetsGoWVPower) August 11, 2014
Stuff like this I don’t quite understand. Is this person really comparing Marcus Gilbert to Mike Adams? Gilbert has been quietly one of the better, solid, and more dependable offensive linemen since he was drafted in the second round back in 2011. Gilbert is in his final year of his contract. If he has another solid season like he’s had for the last several, his value will go up and ultimately, he could slip away to another team willing to shell out more than the Steelers can afford.
The Steelers, specifically Arty Jr., has said that they aren’t going to extend Ben Roethlisberger’s contract until next season. Conspiracy theories aside, in order for the Steelers to sign Ben to the money he is due and worth, they will need to have other players’ contracts buttoned up and out of the way.
I know at this point in time anything but Roethlisberger’s contract extension will be unpopular. But try and see the sensibility behind signing a solid guy like Gilbert for another four years or more.