Pittsburgh Steelers Free Agency news: Analyzing NFL side's latest signings
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been active in free agency, signing several players to bolster their roster for the upcoming season.
They agreed to terms with veteran cornerback Patrick Peterson, who will help fill the gap left by the departure of Cameron Sutton to the Detroit Lions. Additionally, they re-signed safety Demontae Kazee and defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi and signed linebackers Cole Holcomb and Elandon Roberts to strengthen their defense.
Pittsburgh Steelers signings
The Steelers signed veteran cornerback Patrick Peterson to a two-year deal on the first day of the legal tampering period. Peterson, a 12-year veteran and three-time All-Pro, recorded five interceptions in his second season with the Minnesota Vikings in 2022.
His addition will help Pittsburgh overcome the loss of Cameron Sutton, who agreed to a deal with the Detroit Lions earlier in the day. Peterson brings leadership and experience to the young Steelers cornerback room, but his effectiveness in Pittsburgh's mixed zone and man coverage schemes remains to be seen.
Pittsburgh's Patrick Peterson's perfect plays 🔥
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The Steelers agreed to a three-year, $18 million deal with former Washington Commander Cole Holcomb on Thursday, filling a pressing need at inside linebacker. Before a foot injury last season, Holcomb posted 69 tackles in seven games.
The signing is a good start to restock the cupboard, but there's more work to be done. Neither Holcomb nor Elandon Roberts (who also signed with the franchise this offseason) are known for their pass coverage. However, both possess a coveted run-stopping ability that will benefit the team.
Elandon Roberts, a seven-year NFL veteran formerly with the Dolphins and Patriots, agreed to a two-year deal with the Steelers on Thursday. Roberts recorded 107 tackles and 4.5 sacks in 2022, setting career-highs in both categories.
He had a pick-six and two forced fumbles in 2021 and started 43 of 47 games he played with the Miami Dolphins. Roberts is a physical linebacker who can also contribute on special teams. His addition will help replace Marcus Allen, who is an unrestricted free agent.
Pittsburgh re-signed Larry Ogunjobi to a three-year, $28.75 million deal after a solid one-year stint with the team in 2022. Ogunjobi was a crucial run-stopper last season, registering seven tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and 11 quarterback hits.
The Steelers had to address their defensive line this offseason, and re-signing Ogunjobi was a key part of that effort. However, his nagging toe, knee, and back injuries last season could be a concern moving forward.
Larry Ogunjobi vs Nate Herbig 1 on 1… Iron on Iron now https://t.co/ssf0OTKdka
Pittsburgh re-signed safety Damontae Kazee to a two-year deal after he missed nearly half the 2022 season with a wrist injury. When healthy, Kazee was a versatile and productive depth piece, with two interceptions, four starts, and the ability to play alongside Minkah Fitzpatrick and Terrell Edmunds in a three-safety package.
Kazee's return gives Pittsburgh some stability at safety, but the team will have to decide whether to bring back Edmunds or promote Kazee to the No. 2 safety position.
Nate Herbig, formerly of the New York Jets, signed a two-year deal worth $8 million. Herbig is a versatile interior lineman who primarily played right guard in his previous stops. He appeared in 11 games with the Jets last season, starting eight of them. Herbig will provide depth along the offensive line and could push Kevin Dotson for the starting job. With just $4 million guaranteed, Herbig is a relatively low-risk signing.
Notable Pittsburgh Steelers departures
Cornerback Cameron Sutton was the biggest departure of the offseason so far. Joining Sutton in leaving Pittsburgh are linebackers Devin Bush, Myles Jack and Malik Reed.