The Pittsburgh Steelers decided to release a pair of veterans on Friday, wide receiver Allen Robinson and cornerback Patrick Peterson.
Both players were entering the final year of their contracts, as Pittsburgh decided to move in a different direction. The Steelers will be saving about $17 million as a result of these moves.
It was a one-year stint in Pittsburgh for the duo, as the Steelers were attempting to compete in the second year of the Kenny Pickett era. Unfortunately, Pickett did not take the step forward they were hoping for, with Pittsburgh making the playoffs with Mason Rudolph at the helm. With a year of uncertainty ahead of them, moving on from Robinson and Peterson will clear some cap room to help retool their roster on a new competitive timeline.
2023 was the worst full season of Robinson’s career, finishing with just 34 receptions for 280 yards. Excluding 2017 (one game), this would be the only season that he failed to record a touchdown reception.
Peterson was fine as a Steeler, intercepting two passes and successfully defending 11. However, Peterson allowed a QB rating of 91.5 after back-to-back years of under 80, and that is not ideal.
This was really the best foot forward for all parties involved. Robinson and Peterson will have the opportunity to sign with another team, and the Steelers can explore other avenues to improve their roster.
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