Alex Highsmith and the Pittsburgh Steelers have agreed to a four-year, $68 million contract extension. 

Highsmith will make over $27.7 million in guarantees and $38 million over the first two new years of the deal.

Highsmith emerged as one of the NFL's top pass-rushers last season, recording a career-high 14.5 sacks and a league-leading five forced fumbles. He has 22.5 sacks in 49 career games with the Steelers.

"This means everything," Highsmith said in a statement posted to the team's website. "I know I am a Pittsburgh Steeler through and through, and just to be a part of this amazing organization for four more years means the world to me, to my wife, to my whole family. This is where I want to be. This is where I want to play ball. I am unbelievably grateful. I am super thankful to be here and can't wait to get to work. I am excited."