John Clayton, ESPN Senior Writer 17y

Simmons agrees to extension with Steelers through 2011

NFL, Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers made one of their key decisions along the offensive line by locking up guard Kendall Simmons to a four-year extension that will keep him with the team through 2011.

Simmons agreed to a four-year extension that makes him a little less than $24 million in new money with $7.85 million in guarantees. From the Steelers' standpoint, they have Simmons, a former first-round pick, signed for five years for $24 million.

After reshuffling the offense, Simmons became the main target for the future. Sean Mahan won the center job. Willie Colon beat out Max Starks at right tackle. But with Alan Faneca expected to leave at the end of the season, the Steelers didn't want to be in the position to replace two guards.

Simmons also gives the team versatility. He could play center if needed, but his specialty is guard. Chris Kemoeatu is expected to move into a starting guard position once Faneca leaves.

The Simmons signing gives first-year coach Mike Tomlin guidance of how the offensive line will look in the future.

Senior writer John Clayton covers the NFL for ESPN.com.

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