The Super Bowl Champions Pittsburgh Steelers have a lot of free agents to deal with in the off-season. So far they've re-signed left tackle Max Starks, tight end Sean McHugh and left guard Chris Kemoeatu. The most important free agents left include Nate Washington (WR), and Bryant McFadden (CB). Plus, Super Bowl star James Harrison needs a contract extension, as his contract expires in 2010.
Other free agents include: QBs Charlie Batch and Byron Leftwich, LT and RTs Willie Colon, Marvel Smith, and Trai Essex, DE Orpheus Roye, LBs Keyaron Fox, Andre Frazier, and Arnold Harrison, CBs Fernando Bryant and Anthony Madison, FS Anthony Smith, and punter Mitch Berger.
In an attempt to fix the offensive line, the Steelers franchised Starks, giving him $8.451 million next season.
"You always want to go with the team that gave you your first opportunity," the 27-year-old Starks. "This is a great city, and I definitely want to continue my career here."
The problem with re-signing Starks is that the Steelers now have serious salary caps issues, considering some players have Super Bowl bonuses. Many people disagree that Starks should get that much money, but it was between him and Marvel Smith. Marvel Smith has always had back problems and if they drafted a new healthy rookie, would he be ready to play next year?
The Steelers are expected to lose Nate Washington. Rumor is that Tampa Bay, Tennessee, and Cleveland are looking at him. He may want to be closer to family. John Harris of the Tribune Review has said Washinton's agent has yet to be contacted by the Steelers. He signed a one-year, $1.417 million contract as a restricted free-agent last year. It would be a sad for Pittsburgh if they lose him.
Bryant McFadden would be a major loss to the Steelers. They have Ike Taylor, Deshea Townsend and William Gay, but they really need a fourth good, solid cornerback.
Article comments
1 - Jake
The Steelers just seem to make things work. They aren't the most flashy on O or D. I think it's a reflection of excellent coaching. They could turn the towel-boy into the next NFL MVP.