Eight-time Pro Bowler makes plea to return to Steelers

The Steelers released eight-time Pro Bowl CB Patrick Peterson last week. He understands that the NFL is a business but has since suggested that his departure could hurt the team more than it helps it.

Pittsburgh saved $7M in salary cap space by moving on from the 33-year-old, but Peterson believes the development of one of the Steelers' up-and-coming stars could be hindered without him.

"I wanna be able to help Joey [Porter Jr.] to help his career to continue to flourish," Peterson said on the latest edition of his "All Things Covered" podcast. "Joey can be so special, man. But he has no one there that can help him get to where he wants to go, that has the experience to help him go where he wants to go."

The Steelers have since traded for veteran CB Donte Jackson from the Panthers to pair with Porter Jr., but even Jackson doesn't have the resume Peterson does.

"If the Pittsburgh Steelers have the aspiration of Joey being what they want him to be...what other guy would you want to have around teaching the young pup? I've done everything that ya'll want him to be," Peterson added.

Peterson makes a strong argument, but he clearly lost a step in 2023. Opposing teams knew it as they regularly targeted him, and it worked out for them most of the time. 

The 13-year veteran finished the year with 42 tackles, two interceptions and 11 passes defensed while also experimenting with a position change to safety.

Peterson knows he isn't the same player he used to be but believes his versatility can still help Pittsburgh compete for a Super Bowl next season.

"I can be your second and third corner and your nickel for sure because we don't have a nickel on the roster. I know the defense, I understand what we need to do," Peterson stated. "It is not about the money at this point, I just want to have an opportunity to win a championship."

If Peterson is interested in returning to the Steelers for the veteran minimum, it would be difficult to turn down as they are still a little thin at the position. 

However, there is also still a lot of offseason left with several free agents available and a 2024 NFL Draft class that has great options as well.