Steelers Preparing to Pay Harrison

The Associated Press' 2008 defensive player of the year is about to receive a big pay day. Steelers LB James Harrison a one-time undrafted free agent, who bounced around the Pittsburgh and Baltimore practice squads before sticking with the Steelers for good played for a bargain rate of $1.2 Million last season.

He registered 101 tackles, 16 sacks, seven forced fumbles and produces the memorable 100-yard interception return which helped lead Pittsburgh to its sixth Super Bowl title with a 27-23 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.

The Steelers are actively negotiating a pay raise and contract extension, according to Harrison's agent, Bill Parise, with the sides having discussions as often as twice a day.

"It's been a very open process, and it's going about the way you would expect," Parise said. "So I think everything is moving along."

The Pittsburgh Steelers are known for letting big name free agents go to other team for the big money contracts, relying on depth and the system to produce their next big star, but may be willing to bend the rules for Harrison.

"Certainly the Steelers didn't win six Super Bowls by not knowing what they're doing," Parise said. "I'm sure they understand exactly what they have and where they're going with James' situation."