Last Monday, the Steelers cut loose CB Patrick Peterson, an eight-time Pro Bowler. Although he acknowledges that the NFL is a business, he has recently implied that the club may suffer more from his leaving than from it.
The 33-year-old’s departure freed nearly $7 million in salary cap room for Pittsburgh, but Peterson thinks his absence might impede the growth of one of the team’s future stars.
“My goal is to assist Joey [Porter Jr.] in advancing his career,” Peterson stated in the most recent episode of his podcast “All Things Covered.” “Joey has a rare ability, guy. However, he is alone and lacks the expertise necessary to find someone to assist him in reaching his goals.”
In order to combine with Porter Jr., the Steelers then acquired experienced CB Donte Jackson from the Panthers through trade; but, Jackson’s CV isn’t as impressive as Peterson’s.
“What other man would you want around to train the young pup if the Pittsburgh Steelers want Joey to be everything they want him to be? “I’ve fulfilled all your wishes for him,” Peterson said.
Although Peterson presents a compelling case, it is obvious that he stumbled in 2023. Teams that were against him recognized this because they would frequently target him, and most of the time it would benefit them.
The 13-year veteran experimented with switching to safety throughout the season and ended with 42 tackles, two interceptions, and 11 passes defensed.
Although Peterson is aware that he is not the same player as he once was, he thinks that Pittsburgh may still contend for a Super Bowl the following year because to his flexibility.
We don’t have a nickel on the roster, therefore I can definitely be your nickel, second, and third corner. “I am familiar with the defense, and I know what needs to be done,” Peterson said. “It is not about the money at this point, I just want to have an opportunity to win a championship.”
The Steelers are still a touch sparse at the position, so it would be difficult to turn Peterson down if he is willing to return for the veteran minimum.