Another signing for @Steelers: WR Darrius Heyward-Bey. He’s tall – 6-2 – and fast. Will compete for a roster spot/role on offense
— Bob Labriola (@BobLabriola) April 2, 2014
Brown was wrong, as the Steelers signed free agent corner Brice McCain and now have come to terms with speedy wide out Darrius Heyward-Bey. That, on top of the Steelers decision to resign Max Starks (or was that just an April Fools joke?) marks the most aggressive free agent signing spree in Steelers history.
While the moves to bring in talent from the outside are not characteristic of “The Steelers Way” one should not confuse the Steelers for engaging in Daniel Snyder like buying binge.
- Of all of the Steelers signings, only Michael Mitchell is projected as astarter.
The rest of the moves provide depth, with the possible exception of Cam Thomas, who is the Steelers only other experienced NFL defensive end aside from Cameron Heyward. Lance Moore and LeGarrette Blount both signed deals trending toward the NFL’s middle class range, albeit on the lower end there.
Arthur Moats, Brice McCain and Darrius Heyward-Bey all signed short term, low or no signing bonus deals that represent very little risk to the Steelers should they not pan out and/or should a Steelers rookie push them for a roster spot during training camp at Latrobe.
Reinforcing Depth, Fostering Competition
The moves also add depth and speed at two critical positions.
It is the Steelers hope an plan that Markus Wheaton emerges to occupy the split end position opposite that of Antoino Brown, with Lance Moore playing the role of number 3 slot receiver. However, Heyward-Bey’s presence will push both men as well as any rookie brought in during the draft.
In the secondary the Steelers appear set with Ike Taylor, William Gay, and Cortez Allen as their top three corners, although the actual pecking order there is not set. Brice, who was rated by Pro Football Focus as the worst cornerback in the NFL, will not likely push any of those men.
@jddoug @steelers He’s no Rod Woodson, but Pro FB Focus isn’t infallible either. It had Whimper as the second-worst OT, and he was OK in ’13
— Bob Labriola (@BobLabriola) April 1, 2014
One area where the Steelers still lack depth is defensive line, leading to speculation that the door remains open for Brett Keisel’s return.
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