It's been a busy week for the Steelers, with things getting started before free agency officially began.
The team focused on signing their own players before they became free agents, inking guard Ramon Foster, cornerback William Gay, safety Robert Golden and receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey to three year deals.
"That is something the Steelers have always done," said Golden. "They have been really loyal to the guys that they like, that they think can help this team win championships. I am thankful they see me as a piece of the puzzle."
All four players were happy to have the deals completed before the free agency bell rang on March 9.
"The outside world thinks it's a great time," said Heyward-Bey. "Free agency for a lot of people is nerve-wracking. We are talking about relocating if you have to go somewhere new, the negotiations are tough. But to not have to go through that and know this is home, it's a great feeling not to go through the craziness."
In addition to keeping their own, the Steelers signed unrestricted free agent tight end Ladarius Green to a four year contract.
In his four seasons with the Chargers he had 77 receptions for 1,087 yards and seven touchdowns. He had his best season in 2015, catching 37 passes for 429 yards and four touchdowns.
"I am real excited. Everyone seems excited, I am excited," said Green. "Everybody knows the history of the Pittsburgh Steelers. It's an historic team. The offense is explosive. They have a great quarterback, great receivers and running backs, and a great offensive line. It's a great team."
The following became unrestricted free agents on March 9: quarterbacks Bruce Gradkowski and Mike Vick; running backs/fullbacks Will Johnson and Jordan Todman; offensive linemen Kelvin Beachum, Doug Legursky and Byron Stingily; defensive linemen Clifton Geathers, Steve McLendon and Cam Thomas; linebacker Sean Spence, and defensive backs Will Allen, Antwon Blake and Brandon Boykin. Restricted free agent Terence Garvin did not get a contract tender, making him a free agent.
