NFL free agency started yesterday and there are a flurry of big news headlines already. Fans saw the Rams and Eagles swap quarterbacks, Darrelle Revis returned to the New York Jets and Jake Locker, along with Patrick Willis announced their retirements. However, the Pittsburgh Steelers stayed rather quiet just one day after letting go of long-time defensive end, Brett Keisel. Hopefully over the next few weeks of free agency the Steelers begin making a few moves, but with only roughly $7 million to spare, that task could be difficult. So here a few personal predictions for potential Steelers’ signings that make some sense.
Pierre Thomas: the ex-New Orleans Saint is 30-years old, but can still play a quality role as a backup running back in the NFL. Come to think of it, Thomas would fit nicely right behind Le’Veon Bell. He poses a logical double, maybe even triple-threat as a runner, receiver and blocker. Thomas has been used to the same sort of role during his career in New Orleans with the wheel of backs they always feature in the backfield with Drew Brees. The Saints didn’t want to pay $2 million for the services of Thomas who rushed for 222 yards and 378 receiving yards in just eleven games. For the right price, Pierre Thomas would lead to more success for the Steelers in 2015.
Jabaal Sheard: could the former PItt great make a return to Pittsburgh to play for the black and gold in 2015? After a few successful years in Cleveland and a change to outside linebacker, could Sheard be the cheaper replacement for Jason Worilds? Although after starting his career with 15.5 sacks in his first two seasons, Sheard has fallen off a bit, but that could lower the asking price and make the signing more of a possibility.
Antoine Cason: this might be a bit of a wild-card, but the former first round pick in 2008 doesn’t require a high asking price which is a base salary just around $730,000. Cason will only be 29-years old, and if the Steelers can’t return the likes of younger corners like Antwon Blake and Brice McCain, it could be possible that Pittsburgh makes a move at cornerback before the draft in late April. That move could be the small signing of Antoine Cason.
