The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a stressful predicament concerning the future of their veteran wide receiver, Allen Robinson II. As the 2024 offseason continues, Robinson stands to command a significant salary, with a base amount totaling $10 million.
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Steelers WR Allen Robinson II talking with his teammate.
With just one year left on his current contract with the Steelers, both the team's management and fans alike are deliberating over the best course of action regarding his future in the Steel City.
Ari Meirov, an NFL Insider, recently shared his key observations from the 2024 NFL Combine on the 33rd Team website. Held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, the combine served as a crucial event for evaluating talent and shaping team strategies for the upcoming season. Among the insights gleaned from this gathering was Meirov's commentary on the Steelers and their potential plans regarding Robinson.
“Allen Robinson is a potential cut candidate due to his cap number exceeding $10 million, but the Pittsburgh Steelers would prefer to retain him at a reduced salary. Team officials met with Robinson’s representation in Indianapolis.”
Meirov's analysis provides a glimpse into the Steelers' strategic thinking as they navigate the complexities of roster management and player contracts. With Robinson's status as a seasoned player and the financial implications of his salary, Meirov's observations shed light on the considerations guiding the Steelers' decisions regarding his future with the team.
In the 2023 season, Robinson's contribution to the offense was limited, with only 34 receptions for 280 yards and no touchdowns to his name. Given these statistics, it's evident that his role within the offense was not worthy of the money he’s due. Now at 30 years old, Robinson's upcoming salary reflects a substantial investment for what could be considered, at best, a third wide receiver option on the team.
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Steelers WR Allen Robinson II watches a regular season football game from the sideline.
According to Meirov, the Steelers are interested in re-signing him, but it is very clear that they will have to offer him a much lower salary than before. The team would be happy to keep him if they can negotiate a new deal and reduce his cost.
Robinson brings with him experience, skill, and great leadership to the wide receiver corps. However, it is important to carefully consider his high salary demands, particularly in light of the team's overall financial strategy and the need to allocate resources effectively across all positions. The Steelers have a good bit of other needs they need to address and bringing back Robinson at that cost just doesn't make a whole lot of sense.
As the 2024 offseason continues, the Steelers are faced with a challenging decision regarding Robinson’s future with the team. This decision will require careful deliberation, balancing financial considerations, on-field performance, and long-term strategic planning. It's essential for the Steelers to navigate this situation with prudence and foresight to optimize their chances for success both in the short and long term.
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The Steelers are preparing for a unique offensive experience in the 2024 season. With the addition of Arthur Smith as their new offensive coordinator, fans are eagerly anticipating what the offense will look like. In recent seasons, the offense has been hindered by limitations in resources and the previous offensive coordinator, Matt Canada. However, the Steelers have made positive changes by bringing in new help, including the highly experienced wide receivers coach Zach Azzanni.
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Steelers Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith with the Tennessee Titans.
Azzanni is a coach who brings a lot of passion and determination to the table. He is a straightforward type of coach who sets clear expectations for his receivers. This is exactly what the Steelers have needed in the past few seasons.
Robinson's future with the team is uncertain, and to keep an experienced player like him around could be a positive move for Pittsburgh. Although the team is interested in retaining him, it seems unlikely they will do so if they cannot negotiate his contract salary. It will be interesting to see what the Steelers ultimately decide to do with Robinson.
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