The Pittsburgh Steelers are making their second move of the day. After making their first move in signing quarterback Mitchell Trubisky, it was announced that they are bringing back offensive tackle, Chukwuma Okorafor to help protect him:
Steelers are giving their right tackle Chukwuma Okorafor a three-year, $29.25 million deal, including $20.5 million in first two years, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 14, 2022
Okorafor, drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft, has been the team's starting right tackle the past two seasons. He got the job in the 2020 season after Zach Banner went down Week 1 after winning the job in camp. He was then in line to become the starting left tackle, but Banner was not ready to return, and rookie Dan Moore Jr. took over the left tackle spot and Okorafor went back to right.
Okorafor and the entire offensive line had up and down moments this last season. Despite this, I think most can agree he was arguably their most steady blocker last season. He played 97% of offensive snaps, and only allowed two sacks. He had his flaws, especially in the run game.However, the lineman is still only 24 years old and now with the experience, he has the trust of the team, and can continue to improve his game and look to prove he is worthy of the deal.
Other teams were interested according to reports, but were having trouble landing on a number both parties wanted. Pittsburgh and Okorafor clearly still saw a fit with one another, and he is now inked back to Pittsburgh for three more seasons for $29.75M. The deal breaks down as follows:
Steelers' deal for Chukwuma Okorafor three years, $29.25M deal, $9.25M signing bonus, salaries $1.25M, $6M, $4.75M; $4M roster bonus 5th day of 2023, $4M 5th day 2024 lg year roster bonus
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 15, 2022
We congratulate Okorafor and his family on his new deal, and look forward to him anchoring the right side of the offensive line for the foreseeable future.
#SteelerNation
