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Ex-Steelers Starter Signs With Patriots

Originally posted on FanNation All Steelers
By Stephen Thompson | Last updated 3/7/24

The Pittsburgh Steelers' starting tackle from the past four seasons has found a new home and a fresh start elsewhere in the AFC.

According to a report from NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, former Steelers offensive tackle Chukwuma Okorafor has agreed to a deal with the New England Patriots. Financial terms have not yet been revealed. He had been cut by the Steelers last month.

The #Patriots beef up their tackle spot, agreeing to terms with former #Steelers starter Chukwuma Okorafor, source said. Plenty of starting experience.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 7, 2024

Okorafor had started 59 games in all for the Steelers, including 55 games over the past four seasons. He entered the 2023 season as the starter but was benched midway through the season for 2023 first-round pick, Broderick Jones.

His benching was tied to a disciplinary issue. Okorafor said there was an incident on the field following he Steelers' Week 8 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Okorafor later said he regretted what he said. Jones started for the remainder of the season at right tackle.

Okorafor was the Steelers highest-paid offensive lineman last season and his release created $8.8 million in cap space. Now he gets a new opportunity in New England.

This article first appeared on FanNation All Steelers and was syndicated with permission.

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