As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for a comeback season following an average performance, head coach Mike Tomlin remains at the helm. Alongside Tomlin’s leadership, the Steelers are committed to maintaining Kenny Pickett as their starting quarterback, dispelling rumors surrounding potential pursuits of veteran quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields.
To align with their strategic decisions, the Steelers have made significant roster moves. Recently, they opted to part ways with two veteran players, after cutting Mitch Trubisky ahead of the impending start of free agency.
Steelers release Patrick Peterson
The Steelers made significant cost-cutting decisions ahead of the start of free agency by releasing cornerback Patrick Peterson on Friday.
He appeared in all 17 games for Pittsburgh last season, starting at 16, but his time with the team came to an end. His contributions included two interceptions, 42 tackles, and an impressive 97 percent of defensive snaps played. Notably, the 33-year-old transitioned from cornerback to safety late in the season due to injuries within the team.
The Pittsburgh Steelers made a surprising move by releasing cornerback Joe Haden. While Haden remained a veteran leader and mentor to rookies like Joey Porter Jr., his on-field performance wasn’t enough to justify his hefty salary cap hit. Haden was due a significant roster bonus after signing a two-year deal in March.
Releasing him frees up nearly $7 million in cap space, allowing the Steelers to potentially invest in younger options at cornerback. This move suggests the Steelers are prioritizing financial flexibility and rebuilding their secondary for the future.
The eight-time Pro Bowler began his NFL journey as the No. 5 overall pick in the 2011 draft with the Arizona Cardinals. Prior to joining the Steelers, he also spent time with the Minnesota Vikings. Throughout his tenure in the league, he has amassed 652 tackles, 36 interceptions, and 122 passes defensed.
Steelers cut Allen Robinson II
Allen Robinson is revered for his leadership and presence in the Steelers’ locker room during his sole season with the team. Nevertheless, the veteran player faced an unexpected departure alongside Patrick Peterson after the Steelers cut him on Friday.
The decision to part ways with Robinson, along with Peterson, allows the Steelers to free up a significant $10 million in salary cap space, per NBC Sports.
Initially, there were indications that the Steelers were open to retaining the veteran receiver if he agreed to a salary reduction. Nevertheless, this anticipated move did not materialize, leading to Robinson’s departure from the team.
The 30-year-old was acquired via a trade with the Los Angeles Rams last April. His tenure with the Steelers saw him appear in all 18 games of the season. Throughout this time, he had a consistent presence on the field.
Meanwhile, Robinson’s statistical output fell short of expectations, recording a career-low 34 receptions for 280 yards. With the move of the Pittsburgh team, his contributions to Pittsburgh culminated in a modest performance during the team’s loss to the Buffalo Bills in the Super Wild Card Weekend.
Compared to his usual production, Robinson’s season was a disappointment. His 34 receptions were a career low, and his yardage fell short at 280. This slump coincided with the team’s overall struggles, which culminated in a loss to the Buffalo Bills during the Super Wild Card Weekend.
It’s unclear whether Robinson’s decline is due to individual regression or a symptom of the team’s issues. Regardless, the upcoming season will be crucial for both Robinson and the team to prove they can bounce back.
Before his stint with the Steelers, Robinson made his mark in the NFL with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he earned Pro Bowl honors and led the league with 14 touchdown receptions in the 2015 season. Following his tenure with the Jaguars, he also spent four productive years with the Chicago Bears before joining the Rams for the 2022 season.
As Peterson and Robinson embark on the search for his next opportunity, the Steelers will turn their focus towards finding a suitable replacement for the veteran players.
