CBS Grades Steelers' Free Agency Signings

2023 NFL free agency began on Monday, and the Pittsburgh Steelers were quick to make a headline. The number one question headed into Steelers' free agency was what would happen with cornerback Cameron Sutton. Sutton's reliability and versatility named him one of the top free agents this offseason. Although Pittsburgh has a high need at cornerback, Sutton was ultimately too expensive to retain. The cornerback out of University of Tennessee earned a three-year deal with the Detroit Lions worth $33 million with $22.5 million guaranteed.

Hours later, it appeared that the Steelers found Sutton's replacement, as they agreed to terms with former Minnesota Vikings' cornerback, Patrick Peterson. The 12-year veteran was originally drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2011 and was a consistent force on the defense until joining the Vikings for the past two seasons. This past season with Minnesota, Peterson recorded 66 combined tackles and 5 interceptions, a high since 2012.

CBS Sports graded the free agency move an A-:

"While they lost Cam Sutton to the Lions, the Steelers replaced him with a cornerback who may end up in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The Steelers came to terms with eight-time Pro Bowl cornerback Patrick Peterson on a reported two-year, $14 million deal."

Peterson will be going into his 13th season in the NFL. While some are concerned about his age, Tyler Sullivan of CBS sports argued back:

"Age is the only concerning thing here, as Peterson will be 33 before the start of next season. But given what he did last year (he played in each of the Vikings' 17 games), Peterson appears to play younger than his actual age. He can also serve as a possible mentor in the event that the Steelers use the No. 17 overall pick to select Penn State cornerback Joey Porter Jr."

The Rest Of The Report Card Wasn't As Stellar 

Although the Peterson transaction was graded an A-, the Pittsburgh Steelers received a B overall in an article released Wednesday night. CBS noted the addition of Nate Herbig and Cole Holcomb as well. It appears that grade was based on a lack of overall activity for the Steelers. The grade acknowledges that although the additions have been positive, have there really been any 'wow' worthy moves done thus far?

The Pittsburgh Steelers Get "Nasty"

When all else fails on the offensive line, it's time to get "Nasty." The Steelers are signing former New York Jets guard "Nasty" Nate Herbig to a two-year, $8 million deal with $4 million guaranteed. Herbig's most appealing quality for the Steelers is his versatility, with the ability to play both right and left guard positions. At the least, Herbig will provide competition and depth. At most, we found a new starter with known talent in the rush game.

Kazee, Ogunjobi Stay In Pittsburgh 

Another noteworthy move was signing defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi to a three-year, $28.7 million deal. While there was prior concern with Ogunjobi's health as he dealt with a plethora of injuries, he proved to be a key component in stopping the run. In addition to Ogunjobi, safety Damontae Kazee will be making a return to the black and gold. Kazee, who joined the Steelers in free agency last year, is signing a two-year deal with Pittsburgh. While Kazee played in just nine games, he earned a PFF rating of 81, which beat out safety Terrell Edmunds, who had a grade of 69.1.

Of course, it's still early and there are more moves to come and questions to be answered for the Steelers. Keep up with the latest on our up to the minute free agency tracker. 

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