The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed linebacker James Harrison to a new, four-year contract worth $5.5 million. Harrison was not scheduled to become a free agent until the 2008 season.

Harrison, who is a backup on the Steelers defense, played a key role in the team's Super Bowl season. He recorded 45 tackles and three sacks last year, and did have three starts when needed. Harrison was not drafted by a team, and finally made the Steelers roster in 2004.

Steelers head coach Bill Cowher needed to make sure Harrison was locked up due to his ability to step up and fill in when a player gets injured.