Offensive tackle Willie Colon signs tender, will return to Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Steelers restricted free-agent tackle Willie Colon signed his one-year tender Tuesday evening that will guarantee him $2.189 million for the 2009 season, according to Colon's agent Joe Linta. The signing means Colon can no longer negotiate with another team.AFC North

ESPN.com's James Walker writes about all things AFC North in his division blog.

•Blog network: NFL Nation

A four-year veteran, Colon started all 16 games and three additional playoff games for the defending Super Bowl champions. Including Colon, the Steelers will bring back all five starters on the offensive line from their Super Bowl 43 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.

Before free agency, the Steelers put the first-round tender on Colon, which all but assured he would stay in Pittsburgh. Another team could have offered Colon a long-term contract but it would have cost a first-round pick in April's NFL draft.

Pittsburgh Steelers franchise Max Starks
Atlético Madrid’s Johnny Heitinga Unconcerned By Criticism
Pittsburgh Steelers sign T Starks to 1-year, $8.45 million franchise deal
Jonathan Pereira Seeking Villarreal Return In Summer