The Seattle Seahawks signed linebacker K.J. Wright to a four-year contract extension.

A fourth-round pick in 2011, Wright has started 54 of 58 career games and has recorded 333 tackles, 6.5 sacks, an interception, 14 passes defensed, four forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.

“In the offseason, we identified K.J. as one of our core players moving forward and aimed to keep him as a part of the Seahawks family for a long time,” Seahawks general manager John Schneider said in a statement. “The timing of this signing gives us the ability to keep as many of our core players together as we possibly can. Since Day One, K.J. has been a true professional in his daily approach and we are excited for K.J., his family and the 12s to keep him in the organization.”

Wright, who has started at outside and middle linebacker, has already tied a career high with 96 tackles this season.

“K.J. is the epitome of a team guy,” said Seahawks coach Pete Carroll. “We are excited to reward a player of his caliber for all the hard work he has put in over the years to become an important piece of our defense.”

Wright’s extension is the first of several contract situations the Seahawks will need to address. Top reserve middle linebacker Malcolm Smith is a pending free agent this offseason, while middle linebacker Bobby Wagner will be eligible for an extension on his rookie deal. The Seahawks will also have the option to put a one-year extension tag on weak-side starter Bruce Irvin’s rookie contract.