The last two Pittsburgh Steelers first-round picks who saw their fifth-year options picked up -- defensive end Cam Heyward and guard David DeCastro -- never played on those options. Instead, they got extensions worth nearly $120 million combined.
Though inside linebacker Ryan Shazier isn't guaranteed a hefty contract in the future, he's on track for big money as a defensive centerpiece. The Steelers have officially picked up Shazier's fifth-year option, guaranteeing him a 2018 salary commensurate with the top five paid players at his position. Sports Illustrated first reported the move.
If Shazier stays healthy, there's a good chance he never sees that salary and plays on a new deal after 2017. Shazier has shown what he can do when on the field, racking up 87 tackles with 3.5 sacks, three interceptions and three forced fumbles in 13 games. Shazier has missed a combined 14 games in three seasons, but if he puts a full 16 games together in 2017, he's got All-Pro ability.
The Steelers are recognizing that by their decision to pick up his option, which they didn't do with now-departed Jarvis Jones, the 2013 first-rounder.
