During training camp Vince Williams made it clear.
"I want to die a Pittsburgh Steeler," he said.
Well, his wish of staying with the Steelers long-term has become a reality after he signed a new four-year deal, keeping him with the team through the 2021 season.
"I feel like the Rooney family gave me an opportunity to play professional football," said Williams. "It's a great culture here. A great fan base.
"I take pride in being in Pittsburgh. It's a hard-nosed group of individuals who work here. I feel like the people here are no nonsense, hard-working individuals. They are proud people too. I love this place.
"There have been so many great players that have played for the Steelers, so many great linebackers. Just the legacy here. The history. It's so deep and rich. I really feel like I can relate to the people of Pittsburgh."
Williams set a single-season career high with eight sacks last season, ranking second on the team in that category. He started all 16 games last year, finishing with 88 tackles, also a single-season high.
Williams, who was drafted by the Steelers in the sixth-round in 2013, has started 33 games with 244 tackles, 183 of them solo stops, 10.5 sacks, 22 tackles for losses, three fumble recoveries and an interception.
