The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a strategic offseason move by signing cornerback Anthony Averett to a one-year deal. Averett, a 29-year-old veteran, will be vying for a spot on the 53-man roster as he looks to make an impact on the team’s defense.
Anthony Averett’s Journey in the NFL
Anthony Averett entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018. During his initial years with the Ravens, he saw limited action, but his role expanded significantly in the 2020 and 2021 seasons. Averett’s performance during these years, where he logged 18 starts, showcased his potential as a reliable cornerback.
In 2022, Averett signed a one-year, $4 million deal with the Las Vegas Raiders. However, his season was marred by injuries, limiting him to just six games and subsequently affecting his market value.
He began the following year with the San Francisco 49ers but was released due to further injury issues, leading to a brief stint on the Detroit Lions practice squad. Unfortunately, no long-term deal was reached with any team, and Averett did not see regular-season action in 2023.
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Defensive Landscape
The Steelers’ defense is already bolstered by key players such as Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson, who are expected to be the starting cornerbacks. However, Averett’s addition brings valuable first-team experience and depth to the secondary, which could prove crucial as the team navigates the season.
Pittsburgh’s defense has undergone several changes this offseason. While the draft focused primarily on offensive improvements, including the selection of sixth-round cornerback Ryan Watts, the secondary still required experienced depth. The veteran presence of Patrick Peterson, who played with the Steelers last season, remains a possibility for a return, though Averett’s signing may influence the team’s decision-making.
Financial Flexibility and Future Moves
The Steelers have positioned themselves well financially, entering Sunday with over $18 million in cap space. With the majority of the team’s draft class already signed, Pittsburgh has the flexibility to make additional veteran acquisitions. Averett’s deal is expected to be a low-cost, high-upside move, reflecting the team’s strategic approach to strengthening their roster without compromising their financial stability.
Steelers newest signing locks down Tyreek Hill 👀
Anthony Averett is LOCK DOWN 🔒#Steelers
— PickensBurgh🫡 (Tino) (@PickensBurgh) May 12, 2024
Head Coach Mike Tomlin’s Perspective
Head coach Mike Tomlin has been vocal about his openness to bringing back key veterans, including Patrick Peterson. However, Averett’s addition to the team introduces new dynamics that could influence Tomlin’s decisions moving forward. The competition and depth in the secondary will be crucial as the Steelers aim to build a robust defense capable of withstanding the rigors of the NFL season.
A Strategic Addition
The signing of Anthony Averett is a testament to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ commitment to enhancing their defense. With his experience and potential, Averett has the opportunity to make a significant impact and secure a spot on the team’s roster. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on how Averett integrates into the Steelers’ defensive scheme and contributes to their quest for success in the upcoming season.
