Future CB to Be Added by the Steelers to Practice Squad
A younger, perhaps talented veteran might be added by the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Pittsboro, PA This week, the Pittsburgh Steelers released guard Joey Fisher and tight end Scotty Washington, clearing two places on their practice squad. This occurred just hours after head coach Mike Tomlin said that this club uses players outside of the starting lineup for developmental purposes. On sometimes, they include veterans who require adjustment.
The New York Jets released cornerback Craig James at the same time that the Steelers were making room on their practice squad. Although James, 27, has had some opportunities in the NFL, he has never really had a chance to show off his defensive abilities.
He has only appeared in 23 games, including one start, after being left undrafted out of Southern Illinois in 2018. This season marked his first appearance in a regular season game since 2020, when he made his outside starting debut for the New York Jets.
James played 41 plays in that game and did not allow a reception. He has only allowed opposition quarterbacks to complete at a 33.3% percentage in his two outings this season.
James doesn’t really change much for the Steelers, but he does provide them an opportunity to get to know a new player who they may utilize in the future. There is no assurance that the Steelers will work with James Pierre again next season after he signed a one-year contract in the summer. But in a cornerback room that should look very different in 2024, that’s only one name.
Next season, the Steelers may let go of Pierre, Levi Wallace, and maybe even Patrick Peterson. You can also add Chandon Sullivan to that list. If they succeed, Cory Trice Jr., Darius Rush, and Joey Porter Jr. are left. Luq Barcoo is still a member of their practice squad, and he should be able to return there come autumn.
James only provides the Steelers with a seasoned player with strong special teams skills who may eventually take Pierre’s spot. Furthermore, why not add him right away and give him time to acclimate if the team’s strategy is to have choices on the practice squad?
Though it is simple enough to align with their ideology, this is by no means a “exciting” move for the Steelers. Why not sign a young, experienced player who may be Pittsburgh’s cornerback of the future?
Signing James carries no risk and might even provide some benefits. Furthermore, it makes sense to fill a space with him if the Steelers are planning forward.