The Steelers secured their offensive line even further on Tuesday when they signed tackle Marcus Gilbert to a new six-year contract that will keep him in black and gold through the 2019 season.

"It means I am locked in hopefully as a Steeler for the rest of my career," said Gilbert. "It's a blessing to work for a great organization, the Rooney family, Kevin Colbert and Coach (Mike) Tomlin. Just to be around in Pittsburgh, where they show you so much love, I couldn't be happier and in a better place."

Gilbert, who was selected in the second-round of the 2011 NFL Draft, has started in 34 of the 35 regular season games he played with the Steelers, plus he started one preseason game.

He has continued to develop since his rookie year, when he made 13 starts and was the recipient of the Joe Greene Great Performance Award for the team's outstanding rookie. As he has grown, he has seen the line grow and loves the potential they have.

"I've seen the growth on the offensive line, the guys I came in with," said Gilbert. "The line is growing and we can become something special. That was one of my main focal points. To give everything I have to this organization means so much to me."

In June the Steelers signed center Maurkice Pouncey through the 2019 season as well, keeping these former University of Florida teammates together for a long time.

"Pouncey and I have been friends since high school," said Gilbert. "It's a blessing to have a brother in the same city, playing on the same team, you can't ask for anything more. We have had our ups and downs and now we are Steelers for life."