With news of cornerback Cameron Sutton's 8-game suspension, the Pittsburgh Steelers now have a big void to fill.
The return of Sutton was critical since it represented an established player in the slot. Surely, the Steelers could either turn to Donte Jackson, who was acquired by trade for receiver Diontae Johnson in March, or take a chance on undrafted rookie Beanie Bishop Jr., who has been highly rated by the organization. However, the Steelers may have one more option worth considering: free agent CB Xavien Howard.
Howard once was recognized as one of the NFL's top overall players. His most famous season came during the COVID of 2020, when he tied the franchise record with 10 interceptions for the Miami Dolphins.
Two years later, Howard signed a five-year extension with $50.691 million in new money. Since signing that deal, however, Howard has underwhelmed, and this past season, he registered the lowest Pro Football Focus grade of his career with 55.1. Despite this, Howard has averaged at least 13 pass deflections and allowed a completion percentage under 59% the last three seasons.
Following his release on March 13th, Howard expressed his willingness to take a pay cut in order to play with a contender. With a little over $15.9 million in available salary cap, the Steelers could elect to use some of it to add a player who is a proven performer to strengthen their secondary and perhaps help elevate the team to that of a contender when all is said and done.
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