The Pittsburgh Steelers have had a rollercoaster of a 2024 offseason so far. The big moves have included the signing of Patrick Queen, addition of Russell Wilson, trades of both Kenny Pickett and Diontae Johnson, as well as the acquisition of the Chicago Bears' 2021 first-round draft pick, Justin Fields. Another move that was made for cap reasons was the release of veteran cornerback Patrick Peterson. His play in 2023 didn't justify keeping him around for the second year of his two-year contract based on his price tag. Trading Johnson away landed a formidable second cornerback in Donte Jackson from the Carolina Panthers.
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Former Carolina Panthers cornerback, Donte Jackson (#26) practices with his former team.
The 2024 NFL League Meeting has kicked off in Orlando, Florida, which has given reporters the time to speak with Head Coach Mike Tomlin. One of the writers there is Dale Lolley, who reports for the team's official website. On Monday morning, he gave some clarity to fans who may want to see Peterson back in the black and gold, with a different contract.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said the team remains open to bringing back Patrick Peterson. But that could come down the road. More on https://t.co/2oVDUeIHIm later
— Dale Lolley (@dlolley_pgh) March 25, 2024
It's fair to say that the Steelers will take there time regarding reaching back out to Peterson. If the draft and the rest of free agency doesn't pan out as they are hoping, Peterson could be an inexpensive option, who has also proven to be a leader in the locker room. He was a great role model for Joey Porter Jr. to look up to during Porter Jr.'s rookie season.
Peterson looked like he lost a step in 2023, but after several injuries to the safety position, he stepped in as more of a hybrid player. He mentioned that it is something that could extend his career a bit longer. Pittsburgh likely needs one more safety on the roster, and if the dominos fall the right way, Peterson could be headed back to the Steel City on an inexpensive deal. He could chip in at safety and cornerback if need be.
Benjamin B. Braun / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback, Patrick Peterson (#20) runs a drill with the defense at the UPMC Sports Complex in Pittsburgh, PA during 2023 minicamp.
The veteran started 16 games for the Steelers in 2023 and ended up hauling in two interceptions. He's not the dynamic play-maker that he once was, but his leadership and knowledge are valuable characteristics that could be useful for the team as a whole once again in 2024. It's all but certain that Pittsburgh will go after one, or multiple, cornerbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft. If Peterson wishes to return, he should be hoping for that number to just be one.
The duo of Porter Jr. and Jackson will be a formidable one, but there will be other moves coming for General Manager Omar Khan and Tomlin. It speaks volumes that Tomlin is openly discussing the prospect of Peterson returning. It shows support for the future Hall of Fame candidate and might make him think otherwise if a different franchise comes calling.
%202023%20Camp%20Final%20with%20Logos/2L9A8195-544x306.jpg "Steelers Mike Tomlin")
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter / X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin roams the grounds as his team warms up before the annual night practice during 2023 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Steelers Cornerback And Safety Situations Anything But Solved
The cornerback room is definitely an area that needs to be upgraded and added to. The safeties are a little more set in stone with Minkah Fitzpatrick, Damontae Kazee and DeShon Elliott. Peterson could have a way back in to contribute with one, or both, of those areas. Tomlin's comments tell fans that a reunion is absolutely on the table.
Do you want to see the Steelers bring back Peterson? Let us know in the comments below!
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