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Kansas City Chiefs quarterback, Patrick Mahomes may have just changed the way contracts are negotiated in the NFL. Tying up a player to a long term deal gives general managers peace of mind they won't have to worry about losing star players anytime soon. But who, on this current Steelers team exactly could you justify giving a 10-year deal to?
First of all, it would have to be someone who’ll actually play another 10 years, and just one year in the league probably doesn't cut it. Sorry Ben Roethlisberger and Devin Bush, you guys won't be making this list.
I actually only think two players on this team are worth investing 10 years for their next contract: T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick. They are both superstars in this league and are relatively young (Watt, 25 Fitzpatrick 23). Both have already been selected first team All-Pro. It’s difficult to question their ability, and their age gives them a greater chance of longevity.
Just look at the rest of the roster and tell me anyone else who will play another 10 seasons in the league? Not only that, but who could you see putting up 10 seasons of dominating football? Sure, Devin Bush might come to mind, but I haven't quite seen enough out of him yet so he would be a strong candidate should the question be asked after the season. The offensive and defensive lines are aging, Joe Haden will be 32 and Steven Nelson will be 29 when there next deals are done. The Steelers haven't given a second contract to a wide receiver not named Antonio Brown since Hines Ward and you would be foolish to give a 10-year deal to any running back.
All this leaves me with those same two names. Minkah Fitzpatrick and T.J. Watt should be Steelers for life, and they probably will be. But wouldn't it be nice to never have to worry about re-signing them until after 2030?
What do you think? Who would you sign to a 10-year extension on this roster? Let us know down in the comments below!