Sparks Fly for Max Starks

Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman and former University of Florida stand-out Max Starks, has locked in to a four-year, $26.3 million contract loaded with $10 million in guarantees.

Starks replaced former offensive tackle Marvel Smith last season due to Smith’s back problems. Smith has recently signed a two-year, $10.5 million contract with the San Francisco 49ers.

It was a great move by the Steelers to sign Max Starks when they did. They were able to secure an excellent offensive tackle and they now have the ability to use $3-million of extra cap space. The reason for the extra cap space was that Starks originally had the franchise tag on him for $8.451 million; so by relinquishing the tag, the contract amount is split between the four-years (considering there is no special restructuring present).