Brown a 'Steeler for life' after new deal

[February 28, 2017]    (Reuters) - The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed Antonio Brown to a four-year, $68 million contract extension that makes him the highest paid wide receiver in the National Football League, NFL.com reported on Monday.

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown (84) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the first half in the AFC Wild Card playoff football game at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The 28-year-old receiver, whose deal includes a $19 million signing bonus, had one year remaining on his current contract, which was set to pay him $4.71 million in 2017.

The average $17 million per year salary over the duration of the deal is $2 million higher than that of Cincinnati's A.J. Green, who had previously been the league's highest paid wide receiver, and takes Brown through the 2021 season.

A five-time Pro Bowl player, Brown finished this past season second in the NFL in receptions (106), tied for second in touchdown catches (12) and fifth in receiving yards (1,284).

He posted a photo of himself on Twitter during his contract signing with a message: “Steelers for life.”

(Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by Peter Rutherford)

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