Former Steelers CB Patrick Peterson Still Waiting For Phone To Ring: "Why You See So Many High-Caliber Guys Still Free Agents?"

The Pittsburgh Steelers cut ties with many important starters from the 2023 season. The organization didn't have many pending free agents, but they did choose to release a handful of players. Some of those players include Chukwuma Okorafor, Allen Robinson II, and Patrick Peterson. Both Okorafor and Robinson have found new homes in free agency, while Peterson is still waiting for his phone to ring. 

Peterson played his 13th season in the NFL in 2023 with the Steelers. His age showed, as he wasn't able to play as well covering receivers on the outside. He bounced around some between the slot position and safety as well. Pittsburgh decided to release him during the offseason, as his cap hit didn't live up to his on field production. He still remains a free agent, and he discussed the possibility of him playing in 2024 with his co-host Bryant McFadden on their podcast All Things Covered. 

"I'm just doing stuff here and there. Nothing major, but if the phone call happens to come through, I'll definitely be ready to make a team if that's the case. Nothing has happened just yet, but I am doing what I need to do to be in shape."

There were some conversations about Peterson coming back to Pittsburgh on a cheaper deal, which was something he seemed interested in doing. The Steelers had a clear hole at slot corner, which has since been filled by Cameron Sutton. The Sutton move seemed to seriously diminish the chance of Peterson returning to the Steelers, and he is now suffering through the aftermath.

Peterson is looking to embark on his 14th season in the NFL, which means he probably doesn't have much of an interest in signing with a team until training camp is underway. At that point in a player's career, the main focus is keeping their body fresh for when the games matter during the regular season. Despite this, Peterson still wonders why so many high-quality veterans like himself remain available.

"What do you think it is about you know, the corners and the safety market at this day and age? When we know it's a passing league right, why you see so many high-caliber guys still free agents right now?"

Passing has taken over the league, which means it's more important now than ever to have good players at all positions in the secondary. Despite that, guys like Peterson, Stephon Gilmore, Xavien Howard, and Justin Simmons remain free agents. All of these players are older, but are still serviceable on the field. They also provide plenty of experience, and can be valuable mentors for other players. This was seen from Peterson and the relationship he had with Joey Porter Jr. in 2023. 

Steelers Could Still Pursue A Reunion With Peterson

Even though the Steelers signed Sutton, there are still a few reasons they can seek out a reunion with Peterson. Sutton is in the midst of some off-the-field issues, which will likely result in some form of punishment from the league. He could be looking at a multi-game suspension, which might make the Steelers look for a replacement during that time. Someone with the experience like Peterson, that is familiar with the system in Pittsburgh, is an ideal candidate. 

Peterson struggled as a starter while playing outside corner with the Steelers, but he still proved to be serviceable. Aside from Porter and Donte Jackson, Pittsburgh lacks players at outside corner who have legitimate experience at the NFL level. Players like Darius Rush and Cory Trice Jr. are wild cards, and no one can be certain of how they'll play in the regular season. If that group is struggling behind Porter and Jackson, Pittsburgh could look at signing Peterson for some added depth. 

What do you think about Peterson's comments? Would you like to see him back in Pittsburgh? Comment below.

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