While the Pittsburgh Steelers lost veteran cornerback, Cameron Sutton in free agency on Monday, it was reported a few hours after that the franchise is in agreement with three-time All-Pro cornerback, Patrick Peterson on what seems to be a two-year deal. An unexpected splash signing, if you will, ends up bringing experience and a veteran pedigree to the locker room. He hopped on a live episode of the All Things Covered podcast with his co-host, Bryant McFadden to discuss the expected signing.
Former Minnesota Vikings cornerback, Patrick Peterson (#7) will reportedly be signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2023. | Photo Credit: minnesotavikings.com
Peterson said that it was a crazy Monday for him. Him and his agent were trying to find the perfect fit for him given the point he is at in his career. Pittsburgh ended up being the best landing spot.
"Me and my agent have been on the phone all day today. Trying to make sure the next spot for me is a great fit for my skill set... to be around a great culture."
One thing that won't go over with the black and gold faithful was Peterson's comments regarding the jersey number he wants to wear in Pittsburgh. He was #7 for the Minnesota Vikings last season and in high school. He wasn't shy about what he would like to put on when the 2023 regular season starts.
"[I would] love to rock #7."
It's hard to imagine that will ever end up happening, but the podcast's Twitter account had some fun with it after he went on the record Monday evening:
Talk to us nice, @steelers! #HereWeGo pic.twitter.com/HeCejM5njK
— All Things Covered (@ATCoveredPod) March 13, 2023
Legendary Steelers quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger wore #7 the entirety of his 18-year career in Pittsburgh and it's hard to believe that the organization will allow Peterson to wear the same number during his time with the organization. The most likely outcome is him switching back to the #21 he wore when he was with the Arizona Cardinals or his pee-wee number, 2.
Steelers former quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger (#7) stands on the field at then-Heinz Field prior to his last regular season home game as a player for the organization. | Photo Credit: Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
After seeing the outrage from most fans on Twitter, Peterson finally gave in and said he knows #7 isn't available and he won't try for it anymore.
Dear @steelers Nation,
— Patrick Peterson /P2 (@P2) March 14, 2023
I get it. #7 Is not up for grabs. 🤣😭
All Love,
P2
Steelers Shouldn't Be Worried About Veteran's Age
Peterson, who had five interceptions in 2022, wants the fanbase to know that he is still going to be effective in 2023, despite it being his age-33 season.
"The same exactly player they saw last year... and more. I’m in the lab right now working on all the miscues I felt I had last year that’s going to help me this year."
Peterson gave a ton of credit to the Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin and he is excited to play for him in what could possibly be the final two years of his career.
"I've been a big fan of how Mike T. teams have been prepared to play any given football teams, even if they're outmatched on paper, he's going to have his team prepared to fight."
Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin roams the sidelines prior to a 2021 regular season game against the Buffalo Bills. | Photo Credit: Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
It should have fans excited that Peterson will be coming to town, but he might not start off on the right foot with some given his expressed desire to wear the same number as a recently-retired legend. He will likely be given several jersey number options, but #7 is not going to be one of them.
What do you make of Peterson's comments about his jersey number? Let us know in the comments below!
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