The Pittsburgh Steelers have a few options this offseason when it comes to creating cap space. So far, they haven’t waited to release a few former starters, including their current starting center. But one name could be removed from their list of possible cap casualties.
That name is Patrick Peterson. Being asked in his mailbag, The Athletic’s Mark Kaboly says there is a “100% chance” Peterson returns in 2024, with no worry he’ll be headed to free agency.
“I’d put it at a conservative 100 percent chance he returns. Position flexibility, experience and leadership can cost money. They might have plans to move him to safety, which would be interesting,” Kaboly writes.
Peterson moved to safety while the team dealt with injuries and suspensions late last season. He recently said in a podcast that he’s open to playing anywhere “except for the bench,” which wouldn’t be the case for the All-Pro veteran.
Peterson takes on a $9.7 million cap hit this season, and would save the team just under $7 million if released. But it appears unlikely they’d consider the move.
Moving to safety could be a real possibility as cornerback seems to be high on the Steelers list of additions this offseason. The team could then decide whether or not to keep Keanu Neal for another season, or if they’d like having depth at both positions.
