Harrison/Steelers on the Cusp of a New Contract

The Pittsburgh Steelers could be on the verge of crossing off the first item on their offseason to-do list. Locking up the man responsible for the longest play in Super Bowl history, former undrafted free agent OLB James Harrison

The Steelers and James Harrison are "very close" to reaching an agreement on a long-term contract, the All-Pro outside linebacker's agent said Friday.

Harrison, easily the biggest bargain in the NFL last season was the 2008 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, is going into the final year of a contract that will pay him $1.2 million in 2009. His agent, Bill Parise, and the Steelers have engaged in contract talks since February, and the sides have apparently made a breakthrough.

Harrison turns 31 at the beginning of May. Steelers Director of football operations Kevin Colbert, however, has said the Steelers don't have any concerns about signing Harrison to a long-term contract since the 6-foot, 242-pounder has only started for two seasons and doesn't have as much wear and tear as other players his age.