Steelers GM Kevin Colbert silences talks of Antonio Brown extension before regular season

When it comes to the best wide receivers in the NFL, there have been none better than Pittsburgh Steelers WR Antonio Brown the past two seasons. After 239 receptions for 3,200 yards there is no doubt the Pro Bowl receiver has outplayed his current six-year, $43-million dollar deal he signed in 2012. Nonetheless, despite reports of his camp and the Steelers meeting in Jacksonville last weekend to talk a possible extension, Steelers GM Kevin Colbert squashed those reports today.

In fact, as Colbert told Mark Kaboly of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, the Steelers simply don't negotiate new contracts to personnel with multiple years remaining on their deal.

"It was something that was here before I got here, and I am sure it will continue after I am gone," Colbert said. "It is just the consistency within the organization. It is something that we believe in and it works for us, so I don't see it changing."

Brown and his camp did not respond to Colbert's comments, but the Steelers organization seems relegated to trying to sign other players, like offensive tackle Kelvin Beachum, before the season, well before discussing a possible extension for Brown.

"Players sign contracts, we expect them to honor them," Colbert said. "It has been the position of the organization, and it has always been like that."

Although Brown has outplayed his current contract, Colbert is exactly right. Brown is under contract through 2017, and the Steelers have more pressing needs currently than trying to extend Brown's contract entering the 2015 season. With players like Beachum, William Gay and Antwon Blake all in contract years, it would be wise for the Steelers to place their attention on them, rather than an extension for Brown.

This isn't to suggest the team doesn't want to extend Brown's deal. Look for the Steelers and Brown's camp to talk before the 2016 season about extending the best wide receiver in the league's deal, but in the meantime, Brown will have to be okay with his current contract.