The Pittsburgh Steelers have reportedly released veteran cornerback, Arthur Maulet. During his two seasons in Pittsburgh, he appeared in 33 total games and had over total 100 tackles, including 59 in 2022. Prior to his stint in Pittsburgh, Maulet spent time with the New Orleans Saints, New York Jets, and Indianapolis Colts. With the unexpected release, the Steelers may turn to recently signed Chandon Sullivan as the team's primary nickel cornerback.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers CB Arthur Maulet may be expected to step up in a big way in 2023 with Cam Sutton leaving in free agency.
Maulet signed with the Steelers prior to the 2021 season after Mike Hilton signed with the rival Cincinnati Bengals. He quickly proved himself to be a viable option against the run as well as blitzing the quarterback. However, he was never quite able to prove his worth as a pass defender, often serving as a liability in covering receivers in the slot. With the Steelers already having a glaring need at slot cornerback prior to the release, the need has gotten tremendously bigger as the team will undoubtedly need to address the position before the 2023 season commences.
The #Steelers have informed veteran CB Arthur Maulet, with them since 2021, that he’s being released, source said. An experienced CB available.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 10, 2023
According to Cameron Wolfe, of NFL Network, the Steelers and Maulet had some type of disagreement over his contract.
"There was a difference of opinion regarding Arthur Maulet’s contract and he asked for his release, per source. Maulet played a lot of slot CB for Steelers and lead team in special teams tackles last season."
There was a difference of opinion regarding Arthur Maulet’s contract and he asked for his release, per source.
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) May 10, 2023
Maulet played a lot of slot CB for Steelers and lead team in special teams tackles last season. https://t.co/51T4z6uZiv
What Are The Steelers Options At Slot Corner?
In all likelihood, Sullivan will ascend to the primary defender at nickel cornerback. He has experience in doing so, but is far from a definite solution. In addition to Sullivan, the Steelers may call upon safeties, Damontae Kazee and Tre Norwood who both possess the versatility to play in the slot. Regardless, the need for the team to address the position has never been higher.
Jordan Schofield/Steeler Nation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers Safety, Tre Norwood May Be An Option At Slot Corner In 2023
The release of Maulet signifies the team's desire to have defensive backs who are capable of playing on all three downs. Maulet, while effective on first and second down, was often targeted by opposing offenses on third down due to his inability to keep up with receivers. While his tough nose, physical style of play will be missed by the defense, there is a clear opportunity to improve the level of play at the position with the release.
Steelers cut Arthur Maulet. No big deal. He was a hobo version of Mike Hilton. Who they should have never let walk. But now who plays slot? The guy who got burnt like toast in Minnesota last year. Norwood? Biggest hole on roster.
— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) May 10, 2023
Thoughts, Steeler Nation?
What are Yinz thoughts on the sudden release of Maulet? Do you view Sullivan as a viable option to replace him? Leave a comment!
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