A league source tells us that the Steelers have struck a deal with defensive tackle Ziggy Hood, the 32nd overall pick in the draft.
Meanwhile, agent Andy Ross reportedly has posted on his Twitter account a message indicating that an agreement has been reached.
Hood is the fourth 2009 first-rounder to sign, and the final Steelers draft pick to reach a contract.
Per the source, Hood will receive $6.1 million in guaranteed money, a base package of $8.7 million, and a maximum possible deal (with escalators) of $11.3 million.
The guaranteed money is a 7.8 percent increase over the last pick in round one (31st overall) a year ago, and the base contract represents a 7.9 percent increase. (Another source tells us it’s only a 1.3 percent increase.)
We’re told that Hood learned of the deal while in Missouri running 110-yard sprints with his former college teammates as they prepare for the next football season.
His next sprint likely will be to the bank. And then, in order to maintain his bulk, to the Golden Corral.
