The Pittsburgh Steelers want some protecting returned help. They need a safety, outside cornerback, and slot cornerback. When it comes to needs, those are at the pinnacle of the list, and they are in all likelihood to be filled in free agency, with maybe one spot left to fill in the NFL Draft, given their robust free organization classes.
And after the Eagles just released Avonte Maddox, there is a sure connection there that may want to make experience for the Steelers. Aside from the reality that Maddox went to Pitt and the group will recognize extra about him from the inside, Maddox also has those Andy Weidl connections that have come in accessible for many free-agent additions in the last year. Guys like Isaac Seumalo have made that jump to the Steelers due to the fact of the Weidl factor.
Since his rookie season 2018, Maddox has become an critical participant within the Eagles scheme, however injuries preserve catching up to him. He performed in simply 4 games this previous season. But he is nevertheless just 27, and when he is on the field, Maddox has established to be a feisty participant who can make performs on the football. For the Steelers, in particular, Maddox is a man who can blitz off the area and add some other run defender in the secondary. He should fill that run-down nickel cornerback that they lacked ultimate year, consequently forcing Minkah Fitzpatrick into that role.
Patrick Peterson is the solely veteran cornerback beneath contract heading into the 2024 season. Levi Wallace, James Pierre, and Chandon Sullivan are all free agents. Meanwhile, Cory Trice, Darius Rush, and Joey Porter Jr. create masses of younger depth, but they will need some veterans to information them. The crew will probable add in the NFL Draft given how deep this cornerback classification is, too, however their selection on Peterson will determine simply how pressing their wants are at cornerback in free organization and the NFL Draft.
Maddox ought to be one of those high quality additions in free agency, mostly because of the scheme match and the want at slot cornerback. In addition, he now not price that much, so the Steelers be in a position to locate someone stable in the slot at a cost effective price.
