Free agency starts in less than one day, with the legal tampering period beginning on Monday the 13th at 12:00 p.m.

That means teams can legally talk to free agents and approach the offseason with the goal of adding key players. 

For others, it means potentially losing some of your fundamental pieces, something Pittsburgh may have to experience with cornerback Cameron Sutton. 

ESPN released an insider piece, discussing the latest trends and rumors as we approach this all-important date on the NFL calendar. 

Written by Dan Graziano and Jeremey Fowler, Sutton fell into their "sleeper" category, meaning we should expect him to be a coveted free agent, despite his lack of notoriety. 

When discussing Sutton, they said:

"Here's another name to keep a close eye on: Cameron Sutton. The Pittsburgh corner just finished a two-year, $9 million deal but will be in a much higher tier this time. His name is circulating right now at the cornerback spot. Could see some NFC North action here — the Vikings or Lions make sense. Raiders, too."

The writing was on the wall when it comes to Sutton and impending free agency, particularly when Pittsburgh opted not to tag him at the franchise tag deadline last week. 

Financially, this was the right decision for the Steelers. 

Sutton would have garnered an $18.1 million dollar guaranteed salary in 2023 if he was tagged, a figure the Steelers can't afford. 

When using over-the-cap's effective cap space, and factoring in rookie salaries, Pittsburgh has a total operating figure of around $1 million. 

That's not exactly enough cheddar to get the mouse on the trap if you know what I'm saying. 

As mentioned by ESPN, the veteran will be seeking a much larger figure than his career APY of $2 million, coming off his best season as a pro. 

In 16 games, Sutton set a career-high in interceptions (3) and pass breakups (15). 

Only 28 when the season starts, Sutton is hitting free agency in his prime, meaning his market will be a favorable one. 

Hopefully for Pittsburgh, the ESPN report is accurate, with the NFC North as the potential destination for Sutton. 

A player drafted in the third round, Pittsburgh and Sutton mutually developed his talent into a certifiable defensive back. 

So while it may be sad to see him go, Pittsburgh fans will hope it's far from home.