Why the Pittsburgh Steelers almost certainly aren't signing Tyrann Mathieu
There seems to be a large amount of Pittsburgh Steelers fans on social media that are clamoring for the franchise to sign free agent safety Tyrann Mathieu. It makes perfect sense — Mathieu would be a tremendous fit in Pittsburgh's defense. The former LSU star is a versatile defender who always brings incredible toughness and […]
There seems to be a large amount of Pittsburgh Steelers fans on social media that are clamoring for the franchise to sign free agent safety Tyrann Mathieu.
It makes perfect sense — Mathieu would be a tremendous fit in Pittsburgh's defense.
The former LSU star is a versatile defender who always brings incredible toughness and leadership to the field.
And the Steelers need to add a safety this offseason.
But it's not going to happen.
The Steelers don't typically give out big deals to free agents that are searching for their second big contract.
"Our preference is always to add players coming off of their first contract or as close to their first contract as they can be," said Pittsburgh general manager Kevin Colbert on Sunday at the NFL owners meetings.
That statement seemingly indicates that the Steelers aren't even pursuing Mathieu, who is expected to receive a deal worth around $15 million annually.
And that makes sense — Pittsburgh isn't going to alter their decades-long approach in free agency just because of one player.
If you're a Steelers fan, that shouldn't be a big deal. Sure, Mathieu would be a great addition to Pittsburgh's roster, but he would just be a luxury. The Steelers have a Super Bowl-caliber defense with or without Mathieu.
And without him, they have a lot more financial flexibility in the future to address other needs.
Featured image via Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
