Eight-Time Pro Bowl Defensive Back Patrick Peterson Recently Discussed The Rumor That The Pittsburgh Steelers Could Release Him.
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Patrick Peterson is one of the most decorated active players in the NFL, but that doesn’t mean his current team won’t release him. Pittsburgh has already begun the process of moving on from expensive veterans, and there is a chance Peterson is the next man on the list.
Originally signed to a two-year deal prior to the start of the 2023 season, the eight-time Pro Bowler had a solid first year with the Steelers. While he’s nowhere close to the player he used to be, he still finished the year with 37 tackles, 12 run stops, two interceptions, and an 80.4 passer rating allowed in coverage. However, despite the relatively reliable production, the Steelers still might release Patrick Peterson.
Patrick Peterson is due a $3 million roster bonus early in the league year, but that money goes away if the Steelers release him. The defensive back recently spoke about his future on the All Things Covered podcast and made it clear that the ball is in Pittsbugh’s court.
The question is if the Steelers want me to finish with them. I signed a two-year deal for a reason,” Peterson said.
Patrick Peterson Discusses Potential Release
While $3 million isn’t that much by NFL standards, every last cent is going to matter for Pittsburgh. The team is currently $4.3 million over the projected 2024 salary cap, and they’re going to need some money to bring in a decent veteran quarterback. Patrick Peterson can still help the right team, but if his release helps the Steelers improve from Kenny Pickett, then this is an easy decision.
Patrick Peterson should be able to find another team if the Steelers release him, but he might need to change positions. Now entering his age-34 season, the former first-round pick has lost a step and should probably transition to safety. This is something he started doing last year, and we’ve seen the strategy pay off with previous greats like Charles Woodson.
Seeing as Patrick Peterson signed a modest two-year, $14 million deal, it’s safe to assume he won’t break the bank if the Steelers release him. He’d be a great low-risk, medium-reward signing for any team, and these five organizations make the most sense.
