In Pittsburgh, the Steelers are undergoing evaluations across all positions in the coming weeks. One pivotal figure in their secondary decisions is Patrick Peterson, whose future with the team – whether staying or departing – holds significance. Scheduled to return for the 2024 season, potentially his final one, Peterson’s $10 million salary cap hit raises questions about his retention. Despite this, he expresses willingness to remain, under certain conditions. During a recent episode of his podcast All Things Covered, Peterson indicated his readiness to continue playing for Pittsburgh, albeit with a stipulation: he won’t accept a bench role.
While Peterson’s hefty salary suggests he won’t be benched, his veteran experience makes him a valuable asset likely to see considerable playing time. The question shifts to where he’ll contribute. There’s speculation he could transition to a full-time safety role after filling in there due to injuries last season. Alternatively, the Steelers might seek another starting cornerback to complement Joey Porter Jr. should Peterson make the shift.
In any case, it’s improbable that Peterson will merely occupy a bench role. Though he may not replicate his 2023 starter status, he’s expected to play a significant part in the defense. Stay updated with All Steelers for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and analysis.