On Antonio Brown signing: Colbert knew Brown was special player by way he practiced in rookie year

Core players LaMarr Woodley, Lawrence Timmons and Troy Polamalu all signed big deals last off-season, yet there was no press conference for none of the three, but the Steelers today held a press conference at noon for wide receiver Antonio Brown who Friday evening agreed to a 5 year - $42.5 million contract, that included an $8.5 million signing bonus. It might have absolutely nothing to do with the Steelers trying to make a point towards disgruntled receiver Mike Wallace as Brown's situation is unique considering he's coming off just his second season.

Brown was joined by head coach Mike Tomlin and Kevin Colbert at the podium.

"We're very excited with announcement of extension for Antonio Brown, GM Kevin Colbert said. Antonio is very deserving of this contract. First year watching him practice, you knew he was going to be a good player, " Kevin Colbert said."

Colbert was pressed about giving a player a contract extension after just two years and one good season, and Colbert indicated that how Brown practiced in his rookie year played a part as he knew Brown was going to be a special player and do big things for them in year two, as he did.