Steelers Called Foolish For Signing Cam Sutton: “They Want To Bash The Browns Signing Deshaun Watson”

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a controversial decision to reunite with cornerback Cam Sutton despite his legal troubles. After the 2022 season, Sutton departed from Pittsburgh to join the Detroit Lions, signing a three-year deal worth $33 million. However, after just one season with the Lions, Sutton encountered legal issues that changed the course of his career.

Sutton had a warrant issued for his arrest and, after failing to surrender for an extended period, the Lions decided to release him from the team. In April, Sutton was charged with misdemeanor battery and subsequently entered a pretrial diversion program.

The Steelers, familiar with Sutton from his six seasons in Pittsburgh after drafting him in 2017, decided to offer him a second chance this offseason, despite his ongoing legal issues. This move sparked criticism, notably from Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, who expressed his discontent with the Steelers' decision to give Sutton another opportunity. 

"I think the Steelers deserve to be scrutinized and criticized for making the decision to give Cam Sutton safe harbor," said Florio. "When you look at the affidavits, the allegations are strong."

Florio highlighted the graphic and disturbing details in the affidavits that explained why Sutton had a warrant out for his arrest. He argued that these overwhelming details should have deterred Pittsburgh from giving Sutton another chance. 

Florio continued by criticizing Steelers fans, pointing out that while they often condemn the Cleveland Browns for paying quarterback Deshaun Watson a significant amount of money despite the allegations against him, they do not seem to hold the same accountability for their own team’s decisions. This inconsistency in fan reactions further fueled Florio’s frustration with the Steelers’ decision.

"So far, the Steelers haven't gotten the kind of scrutiny that maybe they should. And of course, there are plenty of Steelers fans who get mad if you point that out," he said. "They want to bash the Browns signing Deshaun Watson. At the end of the day, Sutton was suspended only three games fewer than Watson was suspended."

The Steelers' decision to bring back Sutton has sparked controversy among fans and analysts. Some question the wisdom of re-signing a player with recent legal issues, while others believe in giving him a chance to redeem himself. 

Pittsburgh’s choice to re-sign Sutton was driven by their need for help at the cornerback position, particularly in the slot corner role. Sutton’s versatility and familiarity with their system made him an appealing option. 

Just a season ago, he received a solid contract, and now the Steelers benefit from acquiring a valuable player at a reduced cost due to his legal troubles. This situation has drawn criticism from some, like Florio, who argue that it is unethical for Pittsburgh to give Sutton another chance.

Steelers' Cam Sutton Suspended By The NFL

Sutton has been suspended by the NFL for eight games for violating the league's personal conduct policy. He will not appeal the decision and will serve his suspension. During this period, the Steelers will need to adjust their depth chart to cover the slot corner position. 

Some pundits suggest that Pittsburgh might reach out to former players such as Patrick Peterson or Chandon Sullivan to fill the void, while others believe the team will rely on their current roster.

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