As the NFL season inches closer, the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves at a crossroads concerning their cornerback lineup. After acquiring Donte Jackson from the Panthers and waiting until the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft to select Ryan Watts, many were left questioning whether these moves would suffice. The lingering uncertainty has now led the Steelers to consider various options, including delving into the free agent market for a seasoned veteran who could fortify their secondary.
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Reunion With Cam Sutton Will Be Too Risky
Among the names floating around in the free agent pool is Cam Sutton, a former Steelers defensive back whose recent stint with the Detroit Lions was less than stellar. During his time in Detroit, Sutton’s performance was notably subpar, with a Pro Football Focus (PFF) score of 56, highlighting his struggles on the field. Furthermore, Sutton’s off-season was marred by a misdemeanor assault charge, adding a layer of complexity to any potential negotiations.
Despite these challenges, reports have emerged that Steelers’ head coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan held a meeting with Sutton last week in Pittsburgh. This has sparked speculation about a possible reunion, although it’s important to note that this meeting might simply have been a preliminary discussion rather than an indication of a definitive return.
The Pittsburgh Steelers recently met with former player Cam Sutton in Pittsburgh to discuss a potential reunion, sparking speculation among fans and analysts about the impact of his return on the team's defensive lineup, especially in the slot cornerback position. However, with… pic.twitter.com/m33j70XpAJ
— 𝐑𝐈𝐙𝐙𝐁𝐔𝐑𝐆𝐇 (@rizzburgh) April 28, 2024
The Case Against Re-signing Cam Sutton
Re-signing Cam Sutton may seem like a straightforward solution to the Steelers’ cornerback dilemma, but it is fraught with risks. Given his recent performance and legal troubles, Sutton represents a gamble that may not pay off. His signing could potentially consume valuable cap space and a roster spot that could otherwise be used on a more reliable and less controversial player.
The Steelers would be wise to consider other available veterans who could bring stability and experience to the team without the off-field baggage. Names like Stephon Gilmore have been mentioned in league circles as available talents who could offer immediate improvements to any defensive lineup.
Conclusion: Looking Forward, Not Back
As the Steelers aim to build on their successful off-season, the focus should be on adding pieces that align with their strategic objectives without compromising team dynamics. While the allure of familiarity with a former player like Sutton is understandable, Pittsburgh’s management must weigh the potential benefits against the risks of disrupting the team’s progress.
In the competitive landscape of the NFL, where every roster decision can have significant implications, opting for a safer, more consistent option could be the key to ensuring a robust defense ready to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season. As the Steelers continue their search, the decisions made in the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping their path to success.
Source- Fansided
