The Pittsburgh Steelers released cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon a month ago after giving the cornerback a two year contract before the 2022 NFL season. The six-year veteran was set to have a $5.48 million cap hit in 2023, and his release saved Pittsburgh $4 million against the salary cap. It's now being reported that Witherspoon has a new home for 2023.
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback, Ahkello Witherspoon (#25) warms up at Heinz Field in 2021. | Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO
According to a report from Jordan Schultz on Thursday the former Steelers cornerback is signing a deal with the Los Angeles Rams.
Free agent CB Ahkello Witherspoon is signing with the #Rams, per source.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) June 29, 2023
At 6-2, 208 pounds, Witherspoon’s a big corner who’s been very productive. In 13 games with the #Steelers over the past two seasons, he’s amassed 11 PBUs and 4 INTs. pic.twitter.com/26OSi596fh
Unfortunately, 2022 was not as kind to Witherspoon as he dealt with injuries and rarely saw the field due to his decline in level of play. He only appeared in four total games this past season, and had ultimately been considered to be an afterthought at the cornerback position for the Steelers with the additions of Cory Trice, as well as second-round pick, Joey Porter Jr.
AP
Steelers veteran cornerback Patrick Peterson will play a large role in the maturation and growth process of rookie DBs Cory Trice Jr. and Joey Porter Jr.
Steelers Never Saw 2021 Success Again From Witherspoon
Witherspoon was traded to the Steelers from the Seattle Seahawks prior to the beginning of the 2021 season. While filling in for an injured Joe Haden, Witherspoon made his presence felt. Witherspoon finished the 2021 season with three interceptions, two of which came during a comeback effort in Minnesota. On top of the three interceptions, he also recorded 9 pass breakups, while only starting three games.
In Los Angeles Witherspoon figures to be able to see a lot of playing time. The Rams recently traded Jalen Ramsey to the Dolphins and have little starting experience left on their roster outside of Robert Rochell. Cobie Durant figures to be the other starting cornerback opposite of Rochell. He was a 4th round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
The Rams figured to lean on Durant and another second year player in Derion Kendrick. They both played a limited amount of snaps in 2022 but with the Rams getting rid of Ramsey, Troy Hill and David Long Jr. gone, they’re likely see a lot more playing time. The addition of Witherspoon will give the Rams an added veteran presence and if he can get back to his 2021 form, he could be a solid contributor.
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