Pittsburgh Steelers Release Offensive Tackle Jonathan Scott

The Pittsburgh Steelers are releasing offensive tackle Jonathan Scott, ending his two-year tenure with the team. Scott has started a total of 28 games in his NFL career and had to start five games due to injuries along the Steelers offensive line in 2011.

Steelers are releasing T Jonathan Scott, who started five games last season. They signed T Max Starks earlier this week

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) July 19, 2012

The team recently re-signed offensive tackle Max Starks, who is recovering from a serious knee injury. That made one of the Steelers' offensive lineman expendable, and Scott was the odd man out. He wasn't projected to fight for a starting job and the Steelers will save $2.2 million on their strained salary cap by making the cut.

Scott's release frees up some room for the Steelers to do a deal Mike Wallace, who is still unsigned. The two sides are negotiating and hoping to come to an agreement on a long-term deal before training camp.

Although he's not going to start for anyone in Week 1 this season barring a ridiculous run of injuries for one team, Scott still proved that he was a serviceable tackle last season, and should get a chance to stick with a new team.

For more on the Steelers, head over to Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Offseason 2012: Mike Wallace Contract Situation Still Unresolved

In what should come as no surprise, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Mike Wallace have not made progress in resolving the wide receiver's contract situation. Via Len Pasquarelli of the The SportsXchange:

With only about three weeks until the opening of camp, there has been no progress, and, in fact, very little negotiation, toward a resolution of wide receiver Mike Wallace's contract situation in Pittsburgh.

Unfortunately for Steelers fans, there is really no reason for the two sides to hash out a deal quickly, or immediately, as neither side in the negotiation has set a specific date for a resolution prior to training camp. Wallace has yet to sign his one-year RFA tender, and technically has until the Tuesday after Week 10 of the upcoming season to do so, though you would have to think both sides would like to come to an agreement before the regular season begins..

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Offseason: Linebacker Corps Rated Third-Best In NFL

The Pittsburgh Steelers have always been known for a stout defense. Their linebacking corps is known as one of the most fierce in all of the NFL. Ryan Van Bibber of SB Nation agrees and has rated the Steelers linebacking corps the third-best in the NFL behind only the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens. Even after James Harrison, the Steelers have other linebackers that are just as skilled.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers

When James Harrison is not being suspended for sneezing in church, he is an essential part of a Steelers linebacking corps that includes marquee names like Lawrence Timmons and Lamarr Woodley.

The Steelers hope that this defense can always give their offense an opportunity to win games. Harrison, Timmons and Woodley are a big reason why that defense is the stuff of nightmares for offensive coordinators.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Pittsburgh Steelers Release Brandon Lindsey, Sign Ryan Baker

The Pittsburgh Steelers continued to shuffle their roster around ahead of training camp by releasing Alquippa, Pennsylvania resident and Pitt Panther alumni Brandon Lindsey, according to a tweet by Pittsburgh Tribune-Review writer Mark Kaboly.

In a little bit of a shocker, Steelers release LB Brandon Lindsey from Pitt and Aliquippa.

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) June 28, 2012

Lindsey was signed by the Steelers after going undrafted back in April. The Steelers quickly addressed this open spot on the roster by signing fellow linebacker Ryan Baker.

Steelers sign LB Ryan Baker to take Lindsey's roster spot. Still have an open roster spot with the release of Troy Smith earlier in the week

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) June 28, 2012

With time closing in before camp begins, the Steelers are going to be looking to find another person to sign and bring to Steelers camp.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Offseason 2012: Pittsburgh Releases QB Troy Smith

The Pittsburgh Steelers are down a quarterback on their roster as of Monday afternoon. The team announced via Twitter that Troy Smith was released on Monday afternoon.

Pittsburgh signed Smith in January to a reserve/futures contract. The move leaves veteran Charlie Batch as the team's most likely backup quarterback with training camp fast approaching. In addition to starter Ben Roethlisberger, the team has former Texas A&M quarterback Jerrod Johnson on their roster.

Smith was a fifth-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2007 NFL Draft. The 49ers added him to their roster in 2010, and he started six games that season. He was let go prior to the start of the 2011 season, where he latched on in the UFL.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit theSB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Offseason 2012: Mewelde Moore Signs With Indianapolis Colts

Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Mewelde Moore has signed a free agent deal with the Indianapolis Colts, the team announced on Tuesday. Terms were not disclosed.

Colts owner Jim Irsay first tweeted the news earlier Tuesday afternoon.

Moore, who turns 30 next month, played for the Steelers from 2008 through 2011. Last season, he rushed for 157 yards on 22 carries. His best season in Pittsburgh came in 2008 when he totaled 588 yards on the ground, including five touchdowns. He was primarily used as third-down back.

He began his career with the Minnesota Vikings in 2004 after being drafted by the team in the fourth round, 119th overall.

A report from Steelers Depot does point out that the deal is worth $825,000 over one year.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit theSB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Offseason 2012: Antonio Brown Plans To Return In 2013

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown is scheduled to become a restricted free agent next year. Brown was on NBCSportsTalk yesterday, and he told the show that he plans on coming back to the Steelers next season.

While fellow wide receiver Mike Wallace, currently a restricted free agent, is in the midst of contract negotiations, Brown was asked what his contract talks have been like with the Steelers. To which he responded: "I definitely plan on being here [next year]."

Brown continued, according to Pro Football Talk:

Whatever the organization's got planned, I just feel like, I want to be a professional and go about my business the right way. I don't want to take time off and not be at OTAs. I want to be around. So hopefully we can get things wrapped up so I can take care of the business side of things and be here faithfully.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Offseason 2012: Pittsburgh Signs LB Brandon Johnson, Cuts TE Wes Lyons

In the midst of a May minicamp, the Pittsburgh Steelers made a handful of roster moves on Wednesday morning. Out is tight end Wes Lyons. Replacing him on the roster is linebacker Brandon Johnson. The twin moves come a day after the team signed long snapper Matt Katula.

Johnson was a fifth-round pick by the Cardinals in 2006. He joined the Bengals in 2009, and has played there until now. He started all 16 games for Cincinnati last year, contributing on special teams as well. Lyons has been on and off the Steelers' roster since last training camp last season.

Also revealed on Wednesday was news that wide receiver Connor Dixon was placed on the team's waived/injured list. That move freed up the roster spot for Katula.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Pittsburgh Steelers Minicamp: First Team Reps Likely Coming Soon For David DeCastro, Mike Adams

The Pittsburgh Steelers were trying out different looks for their offensive line as the team opened it minicamp on Tuesday. According to reports from the scene, a pair of new faces were on the outside at the tackle positions as the team took the field this week.

Veteran tackle Trai Essex started on the right side in workouts. On the left side was Marcus Gilbert. In the middle it was Maurkice Pouncey at center, Willie Colon at left guard and Ramon Foster at right guard. The look of the offensive line could still, and likely will, change in the days ahead.

Watching the first team take reps were a pair of highly-touted rookies. First-round pick David DeCastro was not working with the starters, and second-round pick Mike Adams was out of the mix as well. That will likely change. DeCastro and Adams will both be rotated into the mix with the first team as minicamp continues.

Players are not allowed to make contact or practice in pads during minicamp and OTAs, so this spring's work is mostly just a walk-through for linemen.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Offseason 2012: Decision Due In Mike Wallace Standoff

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace has still not signed his restricted free agent tender. The offer extended by the team would pay Wallace $2.7 million on a one-year deal for his fourth season in the league. On June 15, the Steelers can withdraw the one-year tender and replace it with a new one worth $577,500, only a 10 percent raise over his 2011 salary.

Complicating the situation is the fact that the Steelers do not have to replace the one-year tender on Wallace. Either route could lead to a protracted standoff with an unhappy player, an unhappy player that represents a key part of the team's offensive firepower.

Wallace is looking for a long-term contract. He has said that he wants a deal on par with what the Cardinals gave Larry Fitzgerald, a deal that would make Wallace one of the highest paid receivers in the league.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Offseason 2012: Pittsburgh Signs Long Snapper Matt Katula

On Tuesday morning, Scott Smith of XAM Sports announced on Twitter that long snapper Matt Katula had signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Smith is also Katula's agent.

Katula is 6-foot-6, 265 pounds. The 29-year-old graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 2005. From 2005 to 2009, Katula played in every game for the Baltimore Ravens, After losing his job and being released by Baltimore during training camp in 2010, he was signed by the New England Patriots in November 2010 and finished out the season with the Pats. Last year, the Minnesota Vikings signed him in November, and he played in the team's last five games.

Katula joins veteran Greg Warren as the other long snapper on Pittsburgh's roster. Warren, who is 30, has been with Pittsburgh since 2005. The two are expected to compete for the long-snapping gig during training camp.

Via Steelers Depot.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Injury Updates: Jason Worilds Out At OTAs, James Harrison And Weslye Saunders Still Recovering

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been dealing with players missing OTAs because of injuries. At today's session, linebacker Jason Worilds was held out of activities because he is still recovering from wrist surgery, according to Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Steelers writer Mark Kaboly.

Worilds had wrist surgery is why he has been out.

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) June 7, 2012

This is the first time we've known about any kind of surgery on Worilds. However there are no indications that this will be a lingering problem going into training camp.

In addition, there are players that are still recovering from ailments. Both linebacker James Harrison and tight end Weslye Saunders are recovering from knee and leg issues, respectively.

Harrison has been dealing with an inflamed knee. Expected to take part in minicamp though.

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) June 7, 2012

Wes Saunders has been dealing with leg issues as well. Has protective "@JoeStarkey1" boot on leg.

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) June 7, 2012

Hopefully these issues will not linger with these players and they will be ready when training camp begins in August.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Receivers Mike Wallace And Antonio Brown Are 'Matchup Busters'

The Pittsburgh Steelers are lucky to have a pair of wide receivers who can stretch the field. Both Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown provide great targets for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, and both players can give tough cornerbacks fits, as ESPN's KC Joyner notes.

A 'Matchup Buster,' according to Joyner, has the ability to separate himself against good competition. Joyner lists matchup-busting receivers who perform the best against cornerbacks who allow fewer than nine yards per attempt. Wallace makes Joyner's top tier of receivers at 10.2 yards per attempt against highly-rated corners, while Brown makes the second tier at 9.5 yards.

Joyner compares Wallace to Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson.

If you're wondering whether Wallace is worth a huge contract, look no further than this metric. He was every bit as good as Calvin Johnson in a midseason study last year and this metric shows that Johnson is not the only star wideout Wallace can top, metrically speaking.

Joyner also says it may be difficult to keep both Wallace and Brown, but the Steelers have incentive to try.

It will be difficult for the Steelers to keep both Brown and Wallace, but they would retain possibly the best matchup-buster wide receiver tandem in the NFL.

The Steelers should attempt to retain both players, as they give the offense an edge in what is still a very tough division. The salary cap might make that difficult, however.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Mike Wallace Contract: Steelers' Cornerback Ike Taylor Comments On Receiver's Dispute

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Ike Taylor weighed in on the elephant in the room of this Steelers' offseason -- Mike Wallace's contract dispute. Taylor made some strong comments about the situation during his regular appearance on TribLive Radio. The cornerback understands Wallace's situation, but clearly articulated that the wideout is fighting an uphill battle. Via Mark Kaboly of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review:

"Mike feels like he outperformed his last contract. But he's dealing with a monster, and that's the Pittsburgh Steelers ... they are not going to let you dictate to them on how you feel."

Wallace has not participated in the voluntary offseason program, staying away from the Steelers facilities and refusing to sign a tender. He has until June 15 to sign the tender and he's expected to skip mandatory workouts next month. But Taylor, who has spoken with his teammate this offseason, put it bluntly:

"Mike is going to be a Pittsburgh Steeler for years to come," Taylor said. "(But I told him), at the end of the day: Football doesn't need you; you need football."

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers OTAs: Injury To Mike Wallace During Workouts Might Have Been Devastating

Steelers Offseason 2012: James Farrior Awaits Call From Contender

Former Steelers linebacker James Farrior is still looking to play in 2012, as to football commentator Ralph Cindrich reports that the veteran is still looking for a "championship opportunity."

What does that mean? Well, the writers at Behind the Steel Curtain have some ideas, as they feel that Farrior could be waiting for a contender such as the New England Patriots to give him a shot.

"Few teams in the league look to sign veteran free agents facing the twilight of their careers as much as the Patriots do. They've recently gotten high production out of DE Kevin Carter and OG Brian Waters. This year, they've brought in WR Brandon Lloyd, OG Robert Gallery and RB Joseph Addai, recently of the St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks and Indianapolis Colts, respectively."

If a contending team doesn't come calling in the near future, then Farrior is expected to announce his retirement.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Max Starks Expects To Be Able To Play In Time For Training Camp, According To Report

According to a report from Steelers Depot, Pittsburgh Steelers eight-year veteran left tackle Max Starks expects to be physically able to play "just about two months away," which would put him on the field in time for training camp.

Starks has been giving updates all off-season and has expressed his desire to play in in 2012, even if it isn't with the Steelers, the only team he has played for since being drafted in the 3rd round of the 2004 draft.

The two month time table would put Starks as being cleared just as training camps around the league start, and although it was reported last week that the 30 year old tackle recently said that he has yet to hear from the Steelers about a possible return, he was at their facilities this past week having his knee checked out.

Starks was re-signed by Pittsburgh last October to shore up the left tackle position, and they may still need him for that purpose in 2012. Second-round pick Mike Adams seems to be on track to start the season opener in Denver, but if Starks is able to play, having a solid veteran behind Adams would give Pittsburgh needed depth.

Stick with this storystream for updates throughout the Pittsburgh Steelers' offseason, OTA and more. For full time Steeler news and analysis, check out Behind the Steel Curtain.

James Farrior, Steelers Discussing Farrior's Retirement

Former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Farrior has been in talks with the team about his retirement after Farrior was released this offseason. Farrior's agent, Ralph Cindrich confirmed that in an interview with 93.7 The Fan, according to Steelers Depot.

The reason that Farrior is contemplating retirement is because he has received no other free agent offers from other teams since he was released by the Steelers.

After being signed by Pittsburgh after playing his first four seasons with the New York Jets, who drafted him No. 8 overall in 1998, he played nine seasons for the Steelers and was the unquestioned captain of the defensive unit. Twice he was named to the Pro Bowl as well as All-Pro teams in 2004 and 2008. In 2004 he was the runner-up to the Baltimore Ravens' Ed Reed for Defensive Player of the Year.

Farrior joins former Steelers Hines Ward and Aaron Smith as players who retired after being released by Pittsburgh.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers OTAs: Brett Keisel Arrived On Thursday

After missing the first couple days of OTAs due to family reasons, Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel arrived on Thursday. While it was Keisel's fist day back, several other Steelers -- veteran and not -- were missing from action.

Ben Roethlisberger, James Harrison, Troy Polamalu, Ike Taylor, and Jerricho Cotchery were all given the day off on Keisel's first day back. Rashard Mendenhall, Jason Worilds, and Casey Hampton were all held out of activities on Thursday due to injures. There were a couple other notable faces missing, too.

According to CBS Pittsburgh:

Wide receiver Mike Wallace didn't participate, and he's not expected to for any of the OTAs, as he's holding out because of a contract dispute.

Draft picks David DeCastro, Mike Adams and Alameda Ta'amu weren't present either.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit theSB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers OTAs: Marcus Gilbert Not Ruling Out Move To Left Tackle

Pittsburgh Steelers right tackle Marcus Gilbert was told during the offseason that he'd be making the switch from right tackle to left tackle, but those plans might be on hold now that the team drafted Mike Adams, a left tackle out of Ohio State. Gilbert, the second-year man out of Florida, isn't ruling out a move to the left, however.

According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review:

"I am not counting it out 100 percent that they aren't going to move me over to left," Gilbert said. "That's my dream, my passion."

Gilbert was told during the offseason that he was going to make the switch from right tackle to left. That changed when the Steelers took Adams in the second round of April's draft.

"Coach told me to spend the majority of the offseason working on the left side," Gilbert said. "I was kind of bummed about (moving back to right tackle). I can't control what the coaches have in mind. They have a plan."

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers OTAs: Troy Polamalu Arrives For First Workout

At age 31, Pittsburgh Steelers All-Pro safety Troy Polamalu doesn't always make it to every voluntary workout. But as the Steelers held their first OTA earlier this week on Tuesday, Polamalu was in fact in attendance and pledged to be there for the remaining workouts through mandatory minicamp on June 12-14, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

But as the years pass by, the question as to Polamalu's future has arisen, especially with news relating to the Baltimore Raven's Ed Reed, who said he's "not 100 percent committed."

Polamalu says he is committed to playing, but he cannot say for how long. He said he thinks about the end "all the time."

"People have asked me how many years do you think you can play? My reaction is always, when you live day to day, it's hard to talk years. It's always been my mantra in life, whether it was my first year as a rookie or year 10, I just live day to day."

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain, SB Nation's Steelers blog. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers OTAs: Cortez Allen To Get First Crack At Nickel Back

The Pittsburgh Steelers are still looking to see who will play in the secondary now that William Gay left for Arizona. As of now it looks as though Cortez Allen has the inside track to get the nickel back position that Gay left behind, according to Pittsburgh Tribune-Review writer Mark Kaboly.

Kaboly says that despite having not played the position formally while in college, Allen knew the concept of the position in case he had to play it in an emergency.

Neal Coolong of Behind the Steel Curtain profiled what Allen was able to do during the season last year.

Allen showed flashes of outstanding all-around ability, in particular, as part of a great team defensive effort against offensive powerhouse New England in a 25-18 Week 8 victory. With a team deep with young cornerbacks, the youngest of them, Allen, looks to lock down one of the league's toughest positions.

For a position that requires the back to know exactly what is going on with every player on defense, Allen has a tall order entering this season.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers OTAs: David Johnson Switches To Fullback

After generally splitting time between tight end and fullback over the past three years, David Johnson is now making the full-time switch to fullback. Running back Isaac Redman alerted the media of the move, saying that Johnson now spends all of his time in meetings with the running backs.

Johnson has yet to record one carry in his first three years in the league, while he's caught 18 passes for 146 yards and one touchdown.

As reported by CBS Pittsburgh:

"For me, being in the league a couple of years now, I am picking it up faster than the younger guys," Redman said. "It's not too difficult for us. Everybody is out here working together, helping each other out, discussing things so that when the season comes around we should be clicking on all cylinders."

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers OTAs: Rashard Mendenhall Says Playing Week 1 Is Possibility

The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to be without starting running back Rashard Mendenhall, who is still recovering from a torn ACL he suffered against the Cleveland Browns on January 1.

However, Mendenhall is optimistic that he will be recovered enough to play in the 2012 season, and if everything goes right, he could be ready by Week 1.

Mendenhall: Still swelling and soreness in knee, calls best-case scenario "Week 1" for his return. Fully expects to play in 2012. #Steelers

— Dejan Kovacevic (@Dejan_Kovacevic) May 23, 2012

That might be a bit ambitious. If Mendenhall is unable to go early in the 2012 NFL season, other running backs like Isaac Redman and Jonathan Dwyer will be expected to help carry the load before Mendenhall returns.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers OTAs: Brett Keisel And Ike Taylor Absent, Along With Mike Wallace

The Pittsburgh Steelers are doing their OTAs on Tuesday. Mike Wallace, still yet to sign his tender, was already absent from the workouts. But in addition to him, defensive end Brett Keisel and cornerback Ike Taylor are both absent from OTAs, according to Steelers Depot.

Keisel appears to be recovering from a groin injury that he suffered in the team's Wild Card round loss to the Denver Broncos last season. There is no word yet on Taylor's situation, but he usually trains in South Florida at this time of the year.

Taylor is slated to be the Steelers' starting cornerback going into the 2012 season. Hopefully the training he is receiving down in South Florida is helping him get ready for the new season.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers OTAs: Emmanuel Sanders Claims He's The New Punt Returner

One day into OTAs for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and third-year wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders is already making claims to the punt returner position, according to the Trib's Mark Kaboly.

Emmanuel Sanders is your new punt returner ... or at least that is what he said happened Day 1 of OTAs

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) May 22, 2012

The Steelers took Sanders in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft. Over the course of his young career, Sanders has caught 50 passes for 664 yards and four touchdowns in two seasons with the Steelers.

If Sanders does wind up being the new punt returner, he would replace current punt returner Antonio Brown, who returned 30 punts last season for 325 yards and a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals on December 4, 2011.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers OTAs: Ben Roethlisberger Says He's Lost Weight, Relationship With Todd Haley Is 'Great'

The Pittsburgh Steelers begin their first set of OTAs on Tuesday morning, but quarterback Ben Roethlisberger opened the week by speaking with the media at a celebrity golf tournament hosted by Merril Hoge and Max Starks. The quarterback was asked how his relationship with new offensive coordinator Todd Haley is going and he indicated everything is smooth. Via Steelers Depot:

Yeah, we're great. People blew it way out of proportion. It's just something new, we're getting to know each other. There's no trouble between us at all.

The big quarterback also stated that he's lost "quite a few pounds," and that the reduced weight will help keep his ankle healthy. Along with improving his physical shape, he's also mentally preparing himself for the upcoming season, studying the new playbook. He indicated that the new offense is just something new and different, which is not necessarily a bad thing.

Big Ben also issued some brief remarks about the contract situation of his star wideout, Mike Wallace. He largely stayed out of the matter with some general comments that won't rock the boat:

He needs to get his fair market value and I think that it will get done and I think Mike is doing it the right way and the Steelers and the Rooneys are doing it their way.

Wallace will not be in attendance on the first day of OTAs on Tuesday.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Who Will Start Opposite Ike Taylor At Cornerback?

While most of the attention on the Pittsburgh Steelers has been focused on the offensive line, the cornerback position has been largely overlooked. While one side of the field is not a place for concern with Ike Taylor, there are three other possible candidates to start opposite of Taylor.

Keenan Lewis, Cortez Allen and Curtis Brown are all candidates to possibly start next season, though Lewis may have the inside track to start according to Behind the Steel Curtain, but Allen could be a stiff competitor as well..

Both played nickel duties, Lewis on the outside when former Steelers CB William Gay shifted inside, and Allen inside in dime packages, most notably, against the high-powered Patriots offense in Week 8.

Regardless of who will start for the Steelers opposite of Taylor, the Steelers appear to have the depth at that position to last them for the foreseeable future.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Could Do Something Historically Unique On Offensive Line

2012 Steelers Offseason: Mike Adams Likely To Start At Left Tackle

Between the NFL Draft and standard-issue aging and injuries, the Pittsburgh Steelers are making serious changes to their offensive line. Rookie David DeCastro was always assumed as a lock to start at right guard, but the other guard and both tackle positions have been up in the air all offseason. Things could change in training camp, but the Steelers' line is set for now. According to Ed Bouchette at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, rookie Mike Adams will start at left tackle going into camp.

This keeps second year tackle Marcus Gilbert on the right side of the line, while Willie Colon will move to left guard, as was previously reported here. The offensive tackle positions have been almost a revolving door for the Steelers in recent years. Max Starks started last year at left tackle, but is currently recovering from a knee injury that could cause him to miss the beginning of the 2012 season.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Pittsburgh Signs Tackle Kyle Jolly

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been bringing in offensive lineman left and right. It was one of their weaknesses last season and the Steelers seem intent on adding some depth at that position both through the draft and in free agency. They've added a new tackle who might end up on the practice squad, but should still provide organizational depth.

Steelers signed T Kyle Jolly, formerly of the Falcons.

— Steelers Depot (@Steelersdepot) May 17, 2012

Jolly went unselected in the 2010 draft out of the University of North Carolina and has spent some time with the Atlanta Falcons on their practice squad, a role that he will likely continue with the Steelers. If everything goes well for the Steelers he probably won't be seeing the field at all for Pittsburgh this year. But you can never, ever have enough offensive lineman.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Offensive Line: Willie Colon To Move To Left Guard

The offensive line has been an area that Pittsburgh Steelers fans have been questioning all offseason. After drafting guard David DeCastro in the first round and tackle Mike Adams in the second round, the Steelers look to be going in the right direction as Willie Colon will move from tackle to guard, according to Mike Prisuta.

This isn't to say the move was inevitable.

Several naysayers over the years have stated that it would never happen and they included Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette who stated just last May, "The move is not going to happen. Cheerleaders on the sideline at Heinz Field will occur before Colon is moved to guard in this offense."

In addition to that, Steelers Depot guesses that Max Starks will start at left tackle and Marcus Gilbert will go to right tackle to at least start the season.

Gilbert is better suited RT long term. Maybe @MaxStarks78 will be ready to start season at LT initially so Gilbert can stat at RT. #steelers

— Steelers Depot (@Steelersdepot) May 16, 2012

But there's also the possibility that because Colon is moving from tackle to guard, that the Steelers are planning on starting Mike Adams at the beginning of the season.

Willie Colon says he's moving to left guard. Guess that means #Steelers plan on starting 2 rookies on OL -- DeCastro and Adams.

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) May 16, 2012

Steelers fans will have to keep an eye on the line as the offseason continues.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Pittsburgh Hosts LB Matt Roth

The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to look for some extra depth on defense as they invited linebacker Matt Roth to visit the team on Tuesday.

Steelers keeping busy today. Also hosting a visit with former Jaguars, Dolphns and Browns LB Matt Roth.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 9, 2012

Roth has played eight seasons in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns, Miami Dolphins and Jacksonville Jaguars after being drafted in the second round by the Dolphins in 2005. In his career, he has recorded 23.5 sacks in his career along with six forced fumbles.

Roth has also recorded a total of 296 tackles in his career, 217 of those solo. The biggest concern with Roth would be his durability, as he has not played more than nine games in three of the last four seasons.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Pittsburgh Hosts LB Brandon Johnson, K Dave Rayner

The major free agents have already signed with other teams, but there is still some quality depth out there for teams to pick up. The Steelers are making a couple of moves on free agents and will be hosting a few at their facility this week, via Adam Schefter.

Former Bengals LB brandon Johnson visiting Steelers today.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 9, 2012

This was Johnson's fourth year in Cincinnati. He appeared in 16 games and registered 20 solo tackles. In addition to Johnson, the Steelers will be bringing in some competition for their incumbent kicker.

And the Steelers also are hosting a visit with veteran NFL kicker Dave Rayner, who would challenge Shaun Suisham.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 9, 2012

Rayner has only appeared in 19 games since 2007 in stints with San Diego, Oakland, Detroit, Cincinnati and Buffalo. I suppose he could provide some competition for Suisham, but he likely won't be an upgrade.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Release Chad Spann, Antonio Smith

The Pittsburgh Steelers roster was over the 90-player limit with the signing of all of their undrafted free agents, so to clear room the team has released running back Chad Spann and cornerback Antonio Smith.

The #Steelers released cornerback Antonio Smith and running back Chad Spann

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) May 2, 2012

Spann was signed to the Steelers practice squad late last season and promoted to the active roster for the NFL Playoffs after Rashard Mendenhall was injured and out for the year.

Smith was signed by the Steelers at the end of the season to a futures contract. Smith originally entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2007 signing with the Indianapolis Colts and has stints with the Detroit Lions, San Diego Chargers, and Cincinnati Bengals.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Byron Leftwich Comes To Terms With Pittsburgh Steelers

In a slightly surprising move, after Charlie Batch had already agreed to a new contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason, Byron Leftwich has also reportedly re-signed with the team. Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette passed along the news.

QB Byron Leftwich tells me he comes to terms with #steelers .

— Ed Bouchette (@EdBouchette) April 26, 2012

Batch has been the primary backup for the Steelers in the past, so Leftwich is either willing to accept that he wasn't going to find a job elsewhere or holding the belief that he's going to be given a shot to compete for the No. 2 quarterback job. The Steelers also signed Jerrod Johnson and Troy Smith in the offseason, so they will need to cut two quarterbacks before the season begins.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Mike Wallace Prepared For A Holdout

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace is prepared for a holdout as the restricted free agent awaits a new long-term contract. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Monday afternoon that Wallace is not going to "sign anything until he has to," according to sources.

If Wallace does not sign the first-round tender Pittsburgh gave him as a restricted free agent, Wallace could miss offseason workouts as well as training camp and even beyond that. Earlier in the offseason, Wallace was said to be seeking a deal along the lines of what the Cardinals gave Larry Fitzgerald last August, something in the neighborhood of $120 million. He would get $2.7 million under the RFA tender.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin sounded calm in his response to the report.

"We're not worried about the reports," Tomlin said on Monday.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Mike Wallace To Stay In Pittsburgh, According To Reports

The 4 p.m. deadline for signing restricted free agents has passed, and according to Andrew Brandt of ESPN.com, no team has put in an offer for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace. This will ensure that Wallace plays for the Steelers in 2012.

The move to allow Wallace to be up for free agency was a gamble the Steelers have now won. The Steelers will sign him by putting a first-round tender on him at $2.7 million. Had the Steelers tried to protect him by putting the franchise tag on him, they would have had to cough up $9.5 million. That's a savings of nearly $7 million.

Wallace has yet to accept the deal, but has until June 15 to do so.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, head on over to Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest offseason news across the league, please visit the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Mike Wallace Not Expected To Receive An Offer Sheet By Friday Deadline

The Pittsburgh Steelers still don't have their most potent deep threat under contract for next year and beyond, and while other teams still have the opportunity to sign him as a restricted free agent, he isn't expected to receive any offers before the deadline on Friday.

No team tried to sign Steelers RFA WR Mike Wallace to an offer sheet and, with deadline to do it Friday, it is not expected that one will.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 19, 2012

This comes as no surprise, as we've heard barely a peep about Wallace since teams started having the opportunity to make offers. Once the deadline passes, it appears that Wallace will be headed back to the Steelers, at least for one more year. That's good news for fans of the black and gold.

Read more news and notes about the Steelers at Behind the Steel Curtain. Read more news around the NFL at the SB Nation hub page.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Keenan Lewis, Ryan Mundy & Isaac Redman Re-Sign

The Pittsburgh Steelers re-signed restricted free agent cornerback Keenan Lewis and safety Ryan Mundy on Monday afternoon. The team also signed exclusive rights free agents punter Jeremy Kapinos, defensive tackle Steve McLendon and running back Isaac Redman, according to Howard Balzer of ESPN Radio.

Lewis and Mundy both signed one-year tender offers that will pay them $1.26 million in 2012. Lewis, a third-round pick in 2009, took over as the starting nickle corner last year. He has a chance to move into the starting lineup as a replacement for William Gay, who left via free agency. Mundy is the team's third safety, and a contributor on special teams.

Redman carried the ball 110 times last season for 479 yards and three touchdowns. He saw extended duty as injuries limited the team's running backs. With Rashard Mendenhall on the shelf, Redman had a chance to begin the season as the Steelers' starting tailback.

Read more news and notes about the Steelers at Behind the Steel Curtain. Read more news around the NFL at the SB Nation hub page.

2012 Steelers Free Agency: Pittsburgh Re-signs Charlie Batch

The Pittsburgh Steelers re-signed backup quarterback Charlie Batch according to a tweet by the NFL Network's Jason La Canfora.

Steelers announce they re-sign vet QB Charlie Batch

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) April 16, 2012

Batch first signed with the Steelers in 2003 and has backed up current quarterback Ben Roethlisberger with decent results. In his seven seasons with the team he has thrown 11 touchdowns to eight interceptions. He made appearances in four games for the Steelers last season throwing 15-of-24 with 208 yards and an interception.

Over his 14-year career, Batch has thrown for 10,610 yards with a completion percentage of 56.3 percent. His career quarterback rating is a 77.8.

Part of the reason for this transaction could be concerns for Ben Roethlisberger's durability. Re-signing Batch gives the Steelers a quarterback who knows the Steelers offense very well should Roethlisberger go down with an injury.

Read more news and notes about the Steelers at Behind the Steel Curtain. Read more news around the NFL at the SB Nation hub page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Steelers Not Expected To Trade Mike Wallace

NFL Free Agency has been open for a number of weeks now, but one of the biggest names in the market has not gotten very much attention. Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace is a restricted free agent, and while a lot of teams would like to bring him on board, Jamison Hensley of ESPN does not expect the Steelers to trade their best deep threat.

There's one snag to this happening -- the Steelers shouldn't be interested in trading Wallace. There's no logical reason for the Steelers to do this. Wallace isn't happy that he is playing under his restricted free-agent tender, and the Steelers won't be happy if Wallace decides to skip offseason workouts because of that. But all signs point to Wallace catching long passes from Ben Roethlisberger this season.

If a team wanted to sign Wallace outright, the Steelers would have the opportunity to match, or receiver a first round pick as compensation. So that means a trade might be the most realistic way that Wallace could leave town. Unfortunately for other teams, the Steelers would have to agree to such a trade, something they don't seem keen on doing.

Read more news and notes about the Steelers at Behind the Steel Curtain. Read more news around the NFL at the SB Nation hub page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Mike Wallace Does Not Want To Sign Tender, May Ask For A Trade

What was thought to be a done deal has now turned into a contract dispute. News has surfaced that Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace will not sign his restricted free agent tender and will not participate in any of the Steelers' offseason activities. There have also been rumors floating around that there is interest in trading for Wallace, according to an article posted by Mark Kaboly on the Steel Mill Blog on the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review website.

Less than 24 hours after a league source told me that a handful of teams are interested in trading for Wallace leading up the NFL draft scheduled for two weeks from today, news leaked that Wallace doesn't intend on showing up to any of the Steelers' offseason activities in protest of his first-round tender.

Wallace becoming a distraction is the last thing that the Steelers wanted to deal with during the offseason. Given how close the Steelers are to the salary cap, there's probably not a way that they can work on a long term deal for Wallace at this point anyway.

Kaboly does bring up a similar situation involving former Steeler wide receiver Santonio Holmes demanding a trade entering the final year of his contract before he was traded for a fifth-round draft pick to the New York Jets. Wallace should command higher than a fifth-round pick if the Steelers choose to deal him.

Read more news and notes about the Steelers at Behind the Steel Curtain. Read more news around the NFL at the SB Nation hub page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Steelers Bring Back Trai Essex, Doug Legursky On One-Year Deals

Most of the big contracts that will be signed in free agency were inked weeks ago, the Steelers are working on bringing back some of their own talent. They re-signed Jerricho Cotchery a few days ago, and now they have reportedly agreed to a one-year deal with tackle Trai Essex.

Steelers have re-signed @TraiDay79 to a one year deal #steelers

— Steelers Depot (@Steelersdepot) April 12, 2012

Essex is a versatile lineman for the Steeler who has experience both on the interior and exterior of the offensive line. He has played his entire career with the Steelers after being drafted in the third round by the team in 2005. The Steelers have also received a signature on their one-year tender offer from another interior lineman in Doug Legursky.

Doug Legursky has signed his one-year tender, per agent David Rich.

— Scott Brown (@ScottBrown_Trib) April 12, 2012

The Steelers needed to upgrade some of their positions on the offensive line, but bringing back Essex and Legursky could help with their depth if they are able to find new starters.

Read more news and notes about the Steelers at Behind the Steel Curtain. Read more news around the NFL at the SB Nation hub page.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Jerricho Cotchery Signs A 2-Year Extension With Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers maintained their wide receiver core by re-signing veteran Jerricho Cotchery to a two year extension according to a tweet by the Jets beat writer for the New York Daily News, Manish Mehta.

WR Jerricho Cotchery has agreed to a two-year deal with the Steelers, per source. #nyj

— Manish Mehta(@TheJetsStream) April 11, 2012

Cotchery played in 13 games in 2011 and caught 16 passes for 237 yards and two touchdowns. Over his eight year career in the league, he has caught 374 passes for 4,751 yards and 20 touchdowns.

Cotchery is a veteran presence for the Steelers that the wide receiver core could use now that Hines Ward has retired. The Steelers could address the position in the NFL Draft picking some younger players that they could develop, and Cotchery could be like a mentor for them.

Read more news and notes about the Steelers at Behind the Steel Curtain. Read more news around the NFL at the SB Nation hub page.

Leonard Pope Signs With Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have announced the signing of former Kansas City Chiefs tight end Leonard Pope to a one-year deal. Pope is entering his seventh season the NFL, after spending his first three season with the Arizona Cardinals and the last three with the Chiefs.

We have signed veteran tight end Leonard Pope, a former 3rd round draft pic of the Cardinals, to a one-year contract.

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) April 10, 2012

It had been reported that the 6-foot 8 tight end was visiting the franchise earlier on Tuesday, and apparently the visit went well. Last season, Pope caught 24 passes for one touchdown in all 16 games. His 247 receiving yards were a career-high for the former third round pick.

#Steelers sign TE Leonard Pope. Spent past three years with #Chiefs, has 49 career starts. Helps fill void from Weslye Saunders suspension.

— Dejan Kovacevic (@Dejan_Kovacevic) April 10, 2012

The details of the one-year deal were not immediately available.

Read more news and notes about the Steelers at Behind the Steel Curtain. Read more news around the NFL at the SB Nation hub page.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Leonard Pope Visits Pittsburgh

The line of players visiting the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason is not limited to just draft prospects. A tweet by Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that free agent tight end Leonard Pope is visiting the team on Tuesday.

#Steelers today entertaining Leonard Pope, 6-8 tight end, UFA from KC after 3 yrs with Cardinals.

— Ed Bouchette (@EdBouchette) April 10, 2012

Pope has been in the NFL for six years since being drafted in the third round by the Arizona Cardinals in 2006. He's played the last three seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs. Last season he caught 24 passes for 247 yards and a touchdown. His career stats include 973 yards and nine touchdowns on 102 receptions.

Pope measures in at 6-foot-8 and 264 pounds. The Steelers could be looking at Pope to provide a red zone target for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain and SB Nation's NFL hub.

Mike Wallace Likely To Stick With Steelers

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace was one of the hot names coming into the free agency period. Despite the cost of a first round pick for signing him, there appeared to be at least some risk of the Steelers losing him. Apparently, though interest in him has dried up, with two weeks left the April 20 deadline for signing restricted free agents to an offer sheet.

Part of the lack of interest is because the two teams that were rumored to be interested in Wallace have already addressed the receiver position, according to an article on Pro Football Talk by Michael David Smith.

Adam Schefter noted on ESPN today that before free agency started, the 49ers and Patriots were the two teams seen as most likely to go after Wallace. However, the 49ers have added Mario Manningham and Randy Moss, the Patriots have added Brandon Lloyd, Donte Stallworth and Anthony Gonzalez, and both teams now appear set to stick with the receivers they have.

Smith goes on to say that this lack of interest could be due to teams not wanting to sacrifice such a high pick for Wallace despite his abilities. He also speculates that it could be that he is asking for such an extravagant contract that could drive a lot of teams away.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain and SB Nation's NFL hub.

Pittsburgh Steelers Guard Ramon Foster Reportedly Signs RFA Tender

Pittsburgh Steelers' guard Ramon Foster has reportedly signed his restricted free agent tender and will return to the team next season at a salary of $1.26 million. Foster was offered the lowest RFA tender, and because he was an undrafted player, the Steelers would not have received any compensation if Foster chose to sign with another team.

Foster isn't expected to compete for a starting job in 2012, but he's proven to be a very serviceable player capable of starting when injuries pop up. The Steelers have been ravaged by offensive line injuries in recent years, leading the undrafted player from Tennessee to make 26 starts during his NFL career. The Steelers don't have a lot of cap room to work with, and will be happy to have a serviceable lineman back so cheap. Foster will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2012 season.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain and SB Nation's NFL hub.

Dennis Dixon Working Out For St. Louis Rams

The Pittsburgh Steelers have already had one back up quarterback in free agency work out for another team, as Byron Leftwich worked out with the Indianapolis Colts. Now, the Steelers other back up quarterback is working out with the St. Louis Rams according to a report.

Titans DE William Hayes completed his free-agent visit w/Rams on Weds. Also, Steelers QB Dennis Dixon visit confirmed; Rams need backup.

— Jim Thomas (@jthom1) April 4, 2012

Dennis Dix was originally drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fifth-round of the 2008 NFL Draft and has been a back up for the Steelers most of his career. Dixon has had some spot duty with the Steelers, including one start in the 2010 season, but tore the meniscus in his knee. The Rams are looking for a back up quarterback and it looks like the Steelers may need to be in the market as well.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain and SB Nation's NFL page.

Byron Leftwich To Indianapolis? Steelers Might Be In The Market For A Backup QB

The PIttsburgh Tribune-Review is reporting that free agent Steelers backup quarterback Byron Leftwich has worked out for the Indianapolis Colts, who are looking to bring in a veteran to complement either Andrew Luck or Robert Griffin III, who the Colts will select with the No. 1 overall pick at the end of the month.

Bruce Arians, the former Pittsburgh offensive coordinator and current Colts O.C., is pushing for Leftwich, who he worked with for three seasons. The issue for the Steelers, who want Leftwich back as Ben Roethlisberger's understudy, is cap room, even with a veteran minimum.

Leftwich would likely see more time in Indy (he played in six games for the Steelers in three years, missing last season entirely with a broken arm) as either Luck or Griffin develops. The only contracted quarterbacks on the Steelers roster other than Roethlisberger are Troy Smith and Jerrod Johnson.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain and SB Nation's NFL page.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Mike Wallace Expected To Remain In Pittsburgh, According To Report

According to a tweet, by ESPN NFL analyst Adam Schefter, current restricted free agent Mike Wallace is expected to stay in Pittsburgh for the 2012 NFL season, barring any sudden developments.

RT @chrissydahitman: What's the word on Mike Wallace? ... Unless there's an unexpected move no one sees coming, he'll be back in Pittsburgh.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 29, 2012

The Steelers currently have Wallace under a franchise tag. If a team wanted to make an offer to Wallace, they would have to pay their first-round draft pick for compensation.

Wallace had 72 catches for 1,193 yards and eight touchdowns in the 2011 football season. Wallace has 24 touchdowns in his three year career and over 3,000 yards receiving. Wallace started the 2011 season strong with three straight 100-yard receiving games, but only managed one other game over 100 yards for the remainder of the season.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Pittsburgh Hoping To Keep Young Talent At Receiver

The Pittsburgh Steelers watched a legend walk out the door this year when Hines Ward was released and then ultimately retired. While old No. 86 won't be out there anymore, the Steelers have have a lot of players that can step in to help replace him; including Mike Wallace, Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders. The talent they do have at that position is also very young, and the Steelers are hoping to hold onto them for a long time, according to Scott Brown of the Trib.

"When you get below the surface, that's a group of guys who work hard, are legitimately humble and motivate one another, and they have the desire to be the best in the business," Tomlin said. "That's what's exciting about our young group of wide receivers."

Brown, Wallace and Sanders are all under 26 and have greatly improved over the past few years both individually and as a unit. Wallace is a restricted free agent this year while Brown and Sanders will hit the market in a few years.

2012 Steelers Free Agency: Keenan Lewis May Not Replace William Gay, According To Report

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost cornerback William Gay to the Arizona Cardinals earlier in this offseason, and it appears that the Steelers are ready to find his replacement from within the organization. Keenan Lewis was listed as the third cornerback this year, but Tomlin mentioned two rookies from last year when he was talking about Gay's potential replacement, according to Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. But Tomlin also said that Lewis has a chance.

"Certainly he is. He played a lot last year. He is not an unknown commodity in my mind. We are talking about our third cornerback. The way he played sub-package football last year, he logged quite a few snaps.

"From defensive playing time, you have to give the nod to Lewis. He’s been a part of our program longer than the others, but we are going to give all those men the opportunity to earn that position."

Lewis will be in competition with 2010 draftees Curtis Brown and Cortez Allen for that starting spot.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Mike Tomlin On Positions Steelers Need To Address In Free Agency, Draft

While a lot of the big-name players in free agency were scooped up within the first few days, there are still available players that could help the Steelers or other teams. Mike Tomlin recently addressed the positions that the Steelers still need to address, whether it be towards the end of free agency or during the upcoming NFL Draft.

Tomlin says Steelers need to address ILB, RB, NT/DT via free agency or the draft.

— Scott Brown (@ScottBrown_Trib) March 27, 2012

Notice he didn't list wide receiver, that could mean that he is confident that the team will be able to retain Mike Wallace, or that he is comfortable with the depth if he leaves. He also doesn't list cornerback despite losing starter William Gay to the Cardinals. He explained that the Steelers have a plan for filling Gay's spot in the lineup.

Tomlin says Lewis, Allen and C. Brown will battle for starting CB position opposite Ike Taylor.

— Scott Brown (@ScottBrown_Trib) March 27, 2012

That's Keenan Lewis, Cortez Allen and Curtis Brown, who all served in backup roles a season ago.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain. For more on the NFL Draft, check out SB Nation Pittsburgh’s 2012 NFL Draft StoryStream.

NFL Draft 2012: Steelers Will Get Three Compensatory Picks

Scott Brown reports that they will receive not none, not one, but three seventh-round compensatory picks in the 2012 NFL Draft.

Steelers awarded three compensatory picks in seventh round. That gives them four seventh-round picks in this year’s draft.

The Steelers were expected to get considerably fewer picks than that, with Brown himself reporting that the Steelers would likely get one or none. Of course, you can hardly blame him, since the formula that determines how many compensatory picks teams get isn’t publicly available.

Anyway, these picks are for the departures of Matt Spaeth, Nick Eason and Keyaron Fox. William Gay recently signed with the Cardinals, but the Steelers won’t be compensated for that until next year.

Seventh-round picks certainly aren’t any big deal, of course — it’s hard to get useful players in that round. It is, however, possible, and it’s better to have them than not to, especially since Spaeth, Eason and Fox haven’t exactly been badly missed.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain. For more on the NFL Draft, check out SB Nation Pittsburgh’s 2012 NFL Draft StoryStream.

Steelers Free Agency: Steelers Likely To Receive One Compensatory Pick, At Most, In 2012 Draft

Steelers Depot explains why the Steelers are likely to receive just one compensatory pick, at most, in the 2012 NFL Draft. The Steelers lost unrestricted free agents Matt Spaeth, Nick Eason and Keyaron Fox last offseason, and compensation for those losses is based on those players' data from last season.

Compensatory picks are awarded by using a formula based on salary, playing time and postseason honors and is also weighed against any unrestricted free agents signed from other teams in addition. The formula that is used to determine those picks was developed by the NFL Management Council and has never been made public.

Spaeth, Eason and Fox were all role players in 2011, so it's unsurprising that the Steelers wouldn't get much. In fact, they might not get any at all. (If they get one, it would probably be for Spaeth.) Steelers Depot notes that the 2013 Draft will likely be a different story, since William Gay, who just left for the Arizona Cardinals, should get a bunch of playing time in 2012.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: William Gay Signs With Arizona Cardinals, According To Reports

Mark Kaboly of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported on Twitter Sunday afternoon that former Steelers cornerback William Gay has signed with the Arizona Cardinals.

Gay has spent his entire career with Pittsburgh since being drafted in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He has accumulated 243 tackles, three sacks, three interceptions, and 41 pass deflections in his career.

As for what his future role could be with the Cardinals, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette feels he will not be very high on the depth chart.

Gay continues the trend of Pittsburgh Steeler players heading west to play for the Cardinals after reaching free agency. Joey Porter, Nick Eason, Clark Haggans, Crezdon Butler, and Bryant McFadden have all signed with the Cardinals since 2008.

Gay will be reunited with Cardinals defensive backs coach Ray Horton who held the same position with the Steelers from 2004-2010.

For more on the Pittsburgh Steelers, make sure to visit Behind the Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Steelers Still Want To Sign Wallace To A Long Term Deal, According To Rooney

Steelers president Art Rooney II reiterated his desire to sign wide receiver Mike Wallace to a long term contract in a recent interview with Scott Brown of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

The sooner the better as far as we're concerned but there's two parties to it. We'll have to see what we agree on so I don't want to put any particular time frame on it or restrictions on it because these things take time and I wouldn't want to box myself in on it.

Wallace, who is currently a restricted free agent, has been offered a one-year $2.74 million deal from the Steelers. Wallace has also expressed interest in becoming the highest paid wide receiver in the NFL. The Steelers are currently $6-$8 million under the 2012 salary cap, which is the primary roadblock to signing Wallace to a long term deal.

For more Steelers coverage, visit Behind the Steel Curtain. Track all the moves in free agency at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Mike Wallace Looking For $120 Million Contract, According To Report

The Pittsburgh Steelers still have one of the biggest restricted free agents on the market in Mike Wallace, and if the latest reports on his demands are to be believed, he is looking for a pretty significant payday. Our Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain notes that Wallace aims to be the highest paid wide receiver in NFL history.

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee is reporting San Francisco looked into signing Steelers restricted free agent WR Mike Wallace, but ultimately declined to make an offer (nod to Steelers 101 for pointing it out). According to Barrows, Wallace is seeking a deal that exceeds Arizona WR Larry Fitzgerald's eight-year $120 million contract.

Now the chances that Wallace actually gets a contract that size, or even something approaching that level of pay, are remote, but I guess it never hurts to set your sights high in negotiations. It's possible that Wallace could be scaring some teams off, which could increase the chances that he will return to the Steelers in 2012.

For more Steelers coverage, visit Behind the Steel Curtain. Track all the moves in free agency at SB Nation's NFL hub.

2012 Steelers Free Agency: Pittsburgh Signs Former Mountaineers Wes Lyons, Will Johnson

The other shoe is still waiting to drop on the big names in Steelers free agency (looking at you, Mike Wallace) but the team is also executing some smaller moves to continue filling out their roster. According to a press release on Steelers.com, the team has added some offensive depth in the form of two former West Virginia Mountaineers Wes Lyons and Will Johnson.

Lyons, a wide receiver and tight end at WVU, has some experience with the Steelers. Lyons was signed last offseason and spent the whole offseason with the team before being released right before the season started. Lyons is from the Pittsburgh area originally and attended Woodland Hills High School. He will be brought in to compete for time at tight end.

Johnson was a fullback at West Virginia. Lyons and Johnson were teammates at WVU for three years.

For more Steelers coverage, visit Behind the Steel Curtain. Track all the moves in free agency at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Jerricho Cotchery Not Likely To Go Back To Jets

Steelers Depot notes that Steelers free agent wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery probably will not re-sign with the Jets, the team with which he spent his first seven years in the NFL. The Jets recently signed Chaz Schilens to bolster their group of receivers, and it sounds like nothing is imminent with Cotchery.

What about Jerricho Cotchery? The Jets reached out about Cotchery last week, but Tannenbaum didn't sound like that's in the cards.

"Nothing on the horizon right now," he said. "Whichever team signs Jerricho will be lucky to get him."

Cotchery evidently visited the Kansas City Chiefs on Tuesday, but it's not clear what will come of that. In the meantime, Steelers Depot notes that Pittsburgh is waiting to find out what happens with Mike Wallace, who is a restricted free agent, so they probably aren't too likely to sign Cotchery right away, either.

Cotchery caught 16 passes for 237 yards for the Steelers in 2011.

For much more on NFL free agency, check out SB Nation's NFL hub.

Hines Ward Expected To Announce Retirement At Press Conference Tuesday

Hines Ward will hold a press conference at the Steelers training facility on Tuesday where he is expected to announce his retirement.

Rashard Mendenhall Injury: Steelers Running Back Could Be Finished With The Team

The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly acknowledging the possibility that running back Rashard Mendenhall may have played his last game with the team. According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the team doubts Mendenhall will be able to play in 2012, the final year of his contract.

Mendenhall tore his right ACL in the regular season finale against the Cleveland Browns on January 1. The team is not counting on their starting running back being recovered enough to contribute at a reasonable level this year.

Isaac Redman would be Pittsburgh's primary replacement for Mendall. Behind Redman, the Steelers have Baron Batch, John Clay and Jonathan Dwyer. Free agent Mewelde Moore is not expected to be re-signed. They could also look to add a running back in the 2012 NFL Draft.

Mendenhall finished the season with 928 yards on 228 carries with nine touchdowns.

For more Steelers coverage, visit Behind the Steel Curtain. Track all the moves in free agency at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Mike Wallace Could Be Targeted by Denver Broncos

With the news that the Denver Broncos will be the team to sign Peyton Manning, the question now becomes what receivers can the Broncos surround Manning with that can help the team maintain a level of success. One of these options might be signing Pittsburgh Steelers restricted free agent Mike Wallace.

The Denver Broncos have a lot of cap space at almost $40 million, and a low enough first round draft pick (No. 25 overall), that it wouldn't hurt them too badly to at least make an offer to Wallace. The Steelers could use the additional draft pick they would get from Denver to acquire some young help at wide receiver if the right player is available.

The Steelers do have other needs, so wide receiver could be a position that they do not address until later in the draft. The Steelers have had success when drafting wide receivers late in the draft.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Mike Tolbert Signs With The Carolina Panthers

One possible option for the Pittsburgh Steelers to help bolster a struggling position is now off the table. Free agent running back Mike Tolbert signed with the Carolina Panthers on Monday. In addition to that, according to Pittsburgh Tribune-Review writer Mark Kaboly, the Steelers weren't even interested in signing him.

So much for Mike Tolbert to the #Steelers. He signs 4-year deal with the Carolina Panthers.

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) March 19, 2012

Mike Tolbert's agent, Joel Turner, is sure talking it up now. Wouldn't talk to me over the weekend.Why? Because #Steelers never had interest

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) March 19, 2012

The Steelers will now most likely turn to the draft to find an option to help Isaac Redman. Without much cap space, the Steelers have to be careful how they spend.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Mike Wallace Likely To Remain With Pittsburgh As Other Possibilities Disappear

Ed Bouchette suggests that, as expected, the number of suitors for star wide receiver Mike Wallace has been reduced to ... well, the Pittsburgh Steelers. And that's it. The Patriots have Brandon Lloyd, the 49ers have Mario Manningham, and the Ravens and Bengals are probably out as well. Because of the high price of acquiring Wallace (a first-round pick plus the price of signing Wallace to a contract that the Steelers would be unwilling to match), the number of potential fits was limited to begin with.

Now the most likely course of action is that Wallace will get a single year and $2.742 million. He and the Steelers could try to work out a long-term deal, but given that the Steelers have the chance to use the franchise tag on him next year, it seems more likely that they will just revisit this again after the season, giving themselves maximum flexibility. That seems like the prudent course, given the mediocre second half Wallace had in 2011.

Wallace must prove that what happened to him in the second half of the 2011 season was not a fluke, that the change in his attitude was temporary and out of frustration and that he will remain the big star of this receiving corps and not Antonio Brown.

Bouchette points out that the Steelers, who have shown an ability to get good receivers in the late rounds of the draft, are unlikely to give out big-money contracts to both Wallace and Brown.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Restructure Casey Hampton's Contract, According To Report

The Pittsburgh Steelers have restructured the final year of Casey Hampton's three-year, $21 million contract, league sources tell Brian McIntyre of Mac's Football Blog. The move helps get the Steelers in line with the 2012 salary cap, and continues a long list of restructures and releases that have been a part of that effort.

Hampton, 34, was due a $4.89 million salary for the 2012 season. He was scheduled to count $8.1 million against the cap. Under the terms of his new deal, Hampton reduced his base salary to $2.8 million and surrendered his workout bonus. The move cuts his cap number to $3.09 million.

Hampton has been a centerpiece of the Steelers' defense at the nose tackle position, but age and injuries have started to take a toll. He turns 35 in September, and is coming off surgery to repair a torn ACL.

For more news and analysis on the Steelers, make sure to visit Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest news around the NFL, stop by the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Free Agency: Kellen Davis Re-Signs With Chicago Bears

The Pittsburgh Steelers aren't typically the most active team in NFL free agency, preferring to draft and develop their talent. The Steelers do occasionally pursue players in free agency, though, and one player in whom they had interest was Chicago Bears free agent tight end Kellen Davis. Davis has apparently re-signed with the Bears, however, according to a report.

So much for Kellen Davis visiting Pittsburgh as @BradBiggs reports the Bears re-signed him to a 2-year contract #steelers

— Steelers Depot (@Steelersdepot) March 14, 2012

Davis was originally scheduled to make a visit to the Steelers, who are looking to upgrade the tight end position behind Heath Miller. With the Steelers looking to run the football more, it's likely they'll see more tight ends on the field. Davis won't be making that visit now, obviously.

For more news and analysis on the Steelers, make sure to visit Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest news around the NFL, stop by the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Mike Wallace Could Stay In 2012, But Leave After That

With the first day of NFL free agency in the books, Mark Kaboly outlines Mike Wallace's ever-evolving situation. Essentially, the situation is that several free-agent wideouts signed, but Wallace wasn't one of them, and it looks like the price of a first-round draft pick plus a serious contract offer for Wallace is going to turn out to be too high for other teams to pay. That means Wallace ought to wind up back with the Steelers this season, and for the bargain price of $2.742 million.

The problem is how the Steelers will end up keeping him after 2012. With a number of receivers signing expensive deals this offseason, Wallace's price as an unrestricted free agent could get out of control, and the Steelers don't have the flexibility to pay him. Or, perhaps, the desire.

The Steelers just don’t place high values on their receivers. They never have.

Just over the past few years alone, they let No. 1 picks Plaxico Burress and Santonio Holmes leave.

They feel they can get top-notch receivers anywhere from the draft to off the street.

Look at the receivers who got big deals already this year – Colston (7th rounder), Johnson (7th rounder), Garcon (6th rounder). Wallace was a 3rd-rounder as well as Emmauel Sanders and Hines Ward. Antonio Brown was a 6th rounder.

That makes a lot of sense. It looks like the likely result, then, is that Wallace will stay with the Steelers for one more year, and then leave. The Steelers will think they can get better value elsewhere.

For more on Mike Wallace and the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Kellen Davis Will Visit Steelers, According To Report

Free agent tight end Kellen Davis will visit the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to a report from Pro Football Talk. Davis is a fourth year tight end out of Michigan State, who has played with the Chicago Bears for his entire career to date. Pro Football Talk reported that Davis will also visit with AFC North rival Cincinnati, and that he will also make a trip to Dallas to visit with the Cowboys.

Via @ProFootballTalk:

League source says TE Kellen Davis will visit the Cowboys, Steelers, and Bengals.

— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) March 13, 2012

Davis had the best year of his career last season, with 18 catches for 206 yards and five touchdowns. He has 28 total catches in his four-year career, nine of which were touchdowns.

For more news and analysis on the Steelers, make sure to visit Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest news around the NFL, stop by the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Expect Steelers To Re-Sign Mike Wallace, Reporter Says

In his preview of the NFL Free Agency with 93.7 The Fan, Steelers writer Ed Bouchette says he expects Mike Wallace to be a Steeler in 2012.

"I don't expect another team to sign Mike Wallace away from the Steelers because they would not only be forfeiting a large contract, but they would also sacrifice a first round draft pick."

Bouchette also points out that the second half of the season that Wallace had might scare off some potential buyers.

"Those teams have video tape of the same second half of the season that we saw."

He also said Steelers fans should not get their hopes up about any big free agent acquisitions, which makes sense, due to the way the team has conducted business in the past and its current issues with the salary cap.

For more news and analysis on the Steelers, make sure to visit Behind the Steel Curtain. For all the latest news around the NFL, stop by the SB Nation NFL Hub Page.

Steelers Tender Offers To Mike Wallace, Five Others

The Steelers have tendered offers to six players: wide receiver Mike Wallace, cornerback Keenan Lewis, tight end David Johnson, safety Ryan Mundy, and guards Doug Legursky and Ramon Foster. The tenders give the Steelers the right to match offers should any of those players elect to sign offer sheets with other teams.

The key player here, obviously, is Wallace, whose situation has been discussed many times here and elsewhere. The Steelers aren’t really able to give Wallace the franchise tag, due to their salary-cap concerns, so they’re placing a first-round tender on Wallace (the other five players apparently received lower tenders, in which, if the Steelers lost a player, they would receive a pick in that player’s draft round), and are gambling that the price of signing Wallace and giving up a first-round pick will be too high for other teams to pay. They may turn out to be right about that, and the chances look good that Wallace will be back with the Steelers next season.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency: Mike Tolbert Thinks Pittsburgh Would Be A Good Fit

Chargers running back Mike Tolbert thinks that the Steelers would make sense as a potential free-agent fit this offseason.

Tolbert, who is scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent late Tuesday, mentioned early on in the interview that that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Pittsburgh Steelers are two teams that will be on his radar. Tolbert did however say later on in the interview that he and his agent have sat down to list several teams where he thought he would be a fit and that list included the New York Giants, Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Green Bay Packers and Miami Dolphins also as good fits for him … Tolbert was also asked about the money he would command and admitted he would like to hit the big pay day, but ultimately it will come down to his market value and what he and his agent deem as fair.

Given Rashard Mendenhall’s injury and the amount of uncertainty surrounding their running back situation, the Steelers could certainly use Tolbert, who rushed for 490 yards and caught 54 passes for 433 yards last season. But as Steelers Depot points out, Pittsburgh doesn’t have a ton of cap space and isn’t usually a big player for high-priced free agents. Unless his value unexpectedly drops, don’t expect him to wind up in black and gold. This is certainly an interesting idea, however.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

NFL Free Agency 2012: Steelers Are $10.5 Million Under The Salary Cap Entering Free Agency

The Pittsburgh Steelers are playing with a small amount of money under the salary cap ($10.5 million, according to Pro Football Talk), as free agency is set to begin on Tuesday afternoon. The Steelers have restructured many current contracts with players to help get under the salary cap line. However, the number that the Steelers have under their line currently could become even thinner after signing tender sheets as well as signing their draft class.

The Steelers are not in serious trouble with the cap and will most certainly be below it when the free agency period begins Tuesday, but the low amount of available money will probably hamstring their ability to get some help via free agency.

For more on this and all things Steelers football, head over to Behind the Steel Curtain.

Steelers' Aaron Smith Likely To Retire, According To Report

One of the longest-tenured Pittsburgh Steelers is on the road to retirement. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Ed Bouchette reports that defensive end Aaron Smith is likely to retire after reports that he would be released by the Steelers last week.

Smith has been with the Steelers since 1999 and was a foundational part of the defenses that took Pittsburgh to three Super Bowls and two Super Bowl wins in his time with the team, racking up 44 sacks for the only NFL team he's ever played for. But the once-reliable Smith, who played in 149 of a possible 154 regular season contests for Pittsburgh from 2000 to 2008, had been beset by injury woes in recent years, appearing in just 15 regular season games since 2009 and recording only 16 tackles and three sacks over that period. And at 36, retirement had always seemed like his logical offseason move.

For more on this and all things Steelers football, head over to Behind the Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency: First Round Tender Gives Steelers 'Upper Hand' In Mike Wallace Negotiations

Mike Wallace is one of the most important members of the Steelers offense, and he is a restricted free agent this offseason. The Steelers decided not to franchise him and instead place a first round tender on him. According to Steelers Depot, the decision gives them an upper hand in their negotiations with the wide out.

By placing just a first round tender on Wallace the Steelers still have the upper hand and general manager Kevin Colbert has not been shy in telling the media whether or not Wallace ultimately leaves or not. Should a new deal not be reached by the time free agency begins next week, they will have the right to match any offer sheet that Wallace receives from another team.

So that means that the Steelers might not be able to get Mike Wallace under contract for the amount of money that they want to pay him, but if they really want him to be on the team, they will have the ability to retain Wallace. And if they decide that the price is simply too high for Wallace, they will still receive a first round pick as compensation.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers GM: Mike Wallace Franchise Tag Would Have Put Team In Tough Position

Steelers GM Kevin Colbert explains his reasoning for not using the franchise tag on star wide receiver Mike Wallace.

“There is no choice,” said Colbert. “Mike will get a tender that would require a team having to give us a first-round pick if he signs with them and we choose not to match it. We understand there could be offers that come in. Mike is a significant player. Ultimately it’s our decision whether or not we are going to match an offer (that he might get). We still have control over the situation, even though he could get offers from the outside. Ultimately we’ll make the decision whether Mike is going to be a Steeler or not.”

Using the franchise tag on Wallace would have put the Steelers in a tough position with regard to the salary cap, and Colbert notes that doing so would have required the Steelers to continue cutting salaries, as they’ve already had to do many times this offseason. Instead, they’re gambling that no other team will be willing to spend their first-round draft pick on Wallace and be able to sign him to a contract that the Steelers can’t match.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Mike Wallace Doesn't Get Franchise Tag From Steelers

The deadline for teams to designate their franchise player came and went Monday afternoon. And it came and went without the Pittsburgh Steelers using that tag on wide receiver Mike Wallace. The Steelers now have until March 13 to put a tender worth $2.742 million for the upcoming season, according to Mark Kaboly of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Even with that tender, Wallace is still a restricted free agent, so teams have until April 20 to sign him to an offer sheet which the Steelers can match. If the Steelers do not match the offer sheet, they would receive a first round draft pick from the team that signed them.

Despite the Steelers being about $15 million under the yet-to-be-announced cap for 2012, the cap is the main reason why Wallace was not given the franchise tag. The Steelers do have an unwritten rule about not negotiating contracts in the middle of a season, so if a deal is not done during the free agency period, Wallace will become an unrestricted free agent after the 2012 season.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers May Need To Look For More Running Back Help

The Pittsburgh Steelers will likely be without running back Rashard Mendenhall for the beginning of the season in 2012, if he plays at all. Mendenhall went down with an injury in the playoffs against the Denver Broncos and now the Steelers could be short at the running back position, even when Mendenhall returns. The Steelers still have Isaac Redman on their roster, who's proven to be a good option, but Cian Fahey of Steelers Depot doesn't think the Steelers can just rest on their laurels with Redman.

Isaac Redman may be able to replace Mendenhall with tough running through the middle and broken tackles to punish defenses. However he lacks the explosive speed of Mendenhall and doesn't break to the outside as well. Redman as a runner has proven himself in a secondary role. However, where Mendenhall's loss really hits the Steelers is strategically.

As Fahey notes, while Redman is serviceable as a running back, he's not nearly as versatile as the Steelers need him to be. Redman isn't close to Mendenhall in terms of catching the football out of the backfield, which is a tactic that new offensive coordinator Todd Haley likes to employ. It's possible the Steelers could look at that style of running back somewhere in the draft or in free agency to fill that role.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

SteeleIs President Art Rooney II Reacts To Departures Of Aaron Smith, James Farrior

Steelers president Art Rooney II speaks to Steelers.com about the releases of veterans Aaron Smith and James Farrior:

"Aaron has been a staple on our defense since he became a starter in 2000 and has helped us rank among the league’s top defenses ever since," Rooney said. "He has done so much for the Steelers on and off the field, and he has been one of our veteran leaders in our locker room. We appreciate everything that he has done for our team and the Pittsburgh community, and we will always hold him in high regard for helping us to so much success over his 13 years with the team."

Smith was drafted in 1999 and quickly became a staple at defensive end, where he was a top defensive performer until a string of injuries caused him to miss the majorities of the last three seasons.

"James was named one of our captains each of the past eight years and that speaks volumes to what he has meant to so many great defenses," Rooney added. "He has been a leader for our defense on the field and an ambassador for the Steelers in the community. We appreciate everything James has done and truly wish him nothing but the best."

Farrior joined the Steelers in 2002 after five years with the Jets. In 10 years with the Steelers, he missed only two games, and he ends his tenure with the Steelers with 1,428 tackles for his career.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Pittsburgh Steelers Salary Cap: Mike Wallace To Receive First Round Tender

The Pittsburgh Steelers have one of the biggest free agents on the market in wide receiver Mike Wallace, but they will not extend him the Franchise tag. According to Jamison Hensley of ESPN, Wallace received a first-round tender by the team instead.

There had been talk about the Steelers putting the tag on wide receiver Mike Wallace to protect the restricted free agent, but Pittsburgh has reportedly decided to give him a first-round tender.

That means that Wallace could sign with a different club, and the Steelers would receive a draft pick as compensation.

The other interesting thing that Hensley points out is that the Steelers probably won't end up using the tag at all because, beyond Wallace, none of their free agents are worth using the tag on.

There is no one else to consider for the franchise tag because Pittsburgh's top unrestricted free agents (the ones who weren't cut) are cornerback William Gay, quarterback Dennis Dixon and punter Daniel Sepulveda.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Tell James Farrior They Will Release Him

The Steelers will release veteran linebacker and defensive leader James Farrior, the Post-Gazette reports. Farrior will become the latest veteran — the group also includes Hines Ward, Aaron Smith and Chris Kemoeatu — that the Steelers have cut.

Farrior got the word today and his agent, Ralph Cindrich, informed everyone else via Twitter that “he’s gone.”

Farrior’s release may bring to an end one of the bloodiest weeks in Steelers history for the length and depth of what general manager Kevin Colbert calls “terminations.”

Farrior’s release comes as no surprise, as he had lost a step, and there had been rumblings for weeks about the Steelers replacing him. There is the possibility that the Steelers could pick an inside linebacker, such as Alabama’s Dont’a Hightower, in the first round of this year’s NFL Draft, although that would be more of a long-term fix than a solution for next season.

Farrior, 37, joined the Steelers in 2002 after five years with the New York Jets.

The release of Farrior saves the Steelers about $2.8 million against the salary cap.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Chris Kemoeatu Released By Pittsburgh Steelers, According To Report

The Pittsburgh Steelers are right in the middle of purging older players with bigger contracts from their roster, having already announced the releases of wide receiver Hines Ward and defensive end Aaron Smith The latest to get a visit from the Turk in Pittsburgh is offensive lineman Chris Kemoeatu according to Mark Kaboly of the PIttsburgh Tribune-Review.

Chris Kemoeatu released

— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly_Trib) March 1, 2012

With these releases, Kaboly notes that the Steelers have purged a total of $41 million in salary, but not necessarily off of the salary cap. Kemoeatu had started at guard for the Steelers since the 2008 season and was known as a mauler on the inside in the running game. When healthy, Kemoeatu was a good player, but just couldn't stay healthy the past three seasons.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Aaron Smith To Be Released By Pittsburgh Steelers, According To Report

The Pittsburgh Steelers kicked off their movement to the young guard of players on Wednesday, announcing that the team would release veteran Hines Ward. On Thursday, news now breaks that the Steelers plan to release another veteran and fan favorite in defensive end Aaron Smith.

Ravens are releasing CB Chris Carr and Steelers are releasing DL Aaron Smith #insideslant

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) March 1, 2012

The release of Aaron Smith shouldn't be a big surprise, as the aging defensive lineman hasn't played more than six games the past three seasons dealing with injuries. While Smith had been an unheralded important part of the Steelers defense, he was due a little over $2 million for 2012 and just hasn't been able to stay healthy. The Steelers have also drafted players on the defensive line like Ziggy Hood and Cameron Heyward that should be ready to step into their roles.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Ben Roethlisberger Wishes Hines Ward Farewell, According To Report

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and wide receiver Hines Ward have teamed up to lead Pittsburgh to countless big wins over the years, none bigger that Super Bowl victories at the end of the 2005 and 2008 seasons. With news that the club plans to release Ward, however, one of the most productive quarterback-receiver duos in team history appears to have been split up, and Roethlisberger is wishing his soon-to-be former teammate well, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Ed Bouchette.

Unable to reach him last night, Roethlisberger left Ward a message on his cell phone, "letting him know 'thank you for everything.' I'll miss him, I know we'll all miss him and it was awesome to play with him," Roethlisberger told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette today.

...

"Hines is Black and Gold," Roethlisberger declared. "I see him and wonder what it'll be like for me late in my career, things like that. It's hard. Two of my favorite players growing up, Joe Montana and Jerry Rice, they're still 49ers. Hines will always be a Steeler."

Ward posted three 1,000-yard seasons with Roethlisberger as the starter from 2004 to this past season, and though the numbers were never eye-popping, Ward could be counted on to be Roethlisberger's safety blanket and go-to option at almost any time as he grew into his current role as a franchise quarterback.

Roethlisberger was productive this past season with Ward largely marginalized in the offense. Still, though, it'll be interesting to see how Roethlisberger responds to having his longtime teammate off the squad this coming season.

For the latest on the Steelers, be sure to stay tuned to SB Nation Pittsburgh.

Hines Ward Might Eye Baltimore, According To Report

Hines Ward -- Baltimore Raven?

In an segment with The Fan Morning Show on Thursday, The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Ed Bouchette suggested that possibility exists a day after the Steelers announced they plan to release the veteran wide receiver.

"I think he’d love to play in Baltimore. I don’t think he’s thinking of legacies right now," he said of Ward. "These guys want to play… once they quit, they’re done."

The Ravens, of course, are the Steelers' biggest rival and a team Ward tortured often through his 14-year stint in Pittsburgh. In 26 games against Baltimore, a division foe, Ward racked up 108 of his 1,000 career receptions for 1,320 yards and six touchdowns. He also had 63 receptions for first downs, after which he'd often flash his signature smile for the TV cameras.

With all that success and the bitterness of the rivalry in mind, it's hard to picture Ward suddenly on the other sideline in a black and purple uniform come next fall. It's important to note that Bouchette is only speculating the move could happen at this point, but the mere suggestion of it will probably upset a lot of Steelers fans.

Ward said on Wednesday that he hopes to play in the NFL again. It'll certainly be interesting to see where he lands, if anywhere, over the upcoming offseason.

For the latest on Steelers football, be sure to stay tuned to SB Nation Pittsburgh.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Steelers Fans React To Release Of Hines Ward

The Pittsburgh Steelers will release Hines Ward, one of their cornerstone players and a member of two Super Bowl Championship teams. The team needs to make room underneath the cap to retain some of their younger players. Our Steelers blog Behind the Steel Curtain reacts to the decision by the team.

And we'll all think fondly of him, hoping -- praying -- one day he returns to Heinz Field to celebrate his championships; hoping -- praying -- that he knows that none of us will ever look at anyone else wearing No. 86 and think he could ever have the same kind of impact on a team that Ward did.

We do hope the throngs of fans of his next team will get to share in what Steelers fans have appreciated for the past 14 years. Aggressiveness. Leadership. Will. Fun.

Not only was he a great player, but Ward played the type of game that will endear him to fans for the rest of his life -- well, fans in Pittsburgh, anyway. The Steelers needed to make a business decision regarding his contract, but there is no doubt that he will be missed.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Did Not Give Hines Ward Offer To Play For Reduced Pay, According To Report

Wide receiver Hines Ward's career with the Steelers has come to an end, and throughout the early evening Wednesday, Twitter was abuzz with reports that Ward's release had less to do with money than with the Steelers being of the opinion that he's washed up. This little tidbit from the Post-Gazette would seem to confirm those reports.

Ward, who had two years left on his contract at a $4 million annual salary, was never offered a chance to take a pay cut, a source close to Ward told the Post-Gazette. That would indicate the Steelers' decision was based purely on their assessment of him as a player.

Ward's production diminished in 2011, by which point it was clear that not only Mike Wallace but also Antonio Brown were better players. It's unclear at this point whether Ward's career is over, but the Steelers' determination that it wasn't worth having him back at any cost doesn't bode well for his future elsewhere in the NFL.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Plaxico Burress Could Come Back To Steelers, According To Report

The Pittsburgh Steelers plan to release Hines Ward and are trying their best to hang on to restricted free agent wide receiver Mike Wallace, but there is another familiar face the Steelers could be interesting in bringing back. Free agent wide receiver Plaxico Burress will be on the Steelers radar when free agency starts, according to a report by Jason Cole of Yahoo Sports.

Source says both steelers and G-men could make a play for Burress. Gmen seems odd, but that's the word.

— Jason Cole (@JasonColeYahoo) March 1, 2012

Burress was originally drafted by the Steelers with the eighth overall pick in the 2000 NFL Draft and spent five seasons with the Steelers before leaving to join the New York Giants in free agency. Burress played for the Giants until he was released prior to the 2009 NFL season and then spent the 2010 season in jail for a gun charge. Burress was picked up by the New York Jets for the 2011 season, ending the year with 45 receptions for 612 yards and 8 touchdowns.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

For Steelers, Hines Ward Release Was About Aging, Not Money

Some analysis of the Steelers’ recent announcement of wide receiver Hines Ward’s impending release has focused on the salary-cap implications of the move, and rightfully so, as the Steelers have been fighting a battle of the salary-cap bulge all offseason. But as Gerry Dulac and others have noted, this move wasn’t about the cap.

Decision to release 86 was not about money. He could’ve offered to play for free and wouldn’t matter. Coaches feel he can’t play anymore …

Ward would have been Sunday inactive if Steelers kept him. They didn’t want him taking a roster spot at expense of developing young player.

Even the best of us age, and the Steelers felt that Ward had already done too much of that, so it didn’t matter that Ward offered to return to the Steelers at a reduced salary. As Mark Kaboly put it:

@MarkMaddenX: @MarkKaboly_Trib Did Hines turn down vet minimum” not sure but doubtful. Steelers wanted nothing to do w/ him regardless of $

We’ll see if Ward lands anywhere — there’s already been some speculation about him heading to the Jaguars — but it looks like the Steelers simply think he’s done.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Hines Ward To Be Released By Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have released veteran wide receiver Hines Ward, the team announced on Wednesday afternoon. "We had a conversation today with Hines Ward and informed him that we plan to release him of his contract prior to the start of the 2012 NFL calendar year," Steelers President Art Rooney II told the team's website, Steelers.com. Ward has been with the Steelers since the 1998 NFL season, when the team drafted him in the third round.

During his tenure with the Steelers, Ward became the team's all-time leader in receptions (1,000), receiving yards (12,083), receiving touchdowns (85) and 100-yard receiving games (29). Ward made four Pro-Bowls in his career and was the MVP of Super Bowl XL, when the Steelers beat the Seattle Seahawks.

With the release of Ward, the Steelers have only two wide receivers currently under contract as they work their salary cap to make room to retain Mike Wallace. Releasing Ward outright clears $3.39 million from the salary cap.

For more on the Steelers offseason and Hines Ward, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Pittsburgh Gambling With Mike Wallace

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace is scheduled to be a restricted free agent and the Steelers have until Monday March 5 to tender him with the franchise tag. The Steelers aren't expected to, however, because they simply don't see to be able to afford it at a guaranteed salary of $9.5 million, which is the projected franchise number for wide receivers, even with all of the restructuring. The most likely scenario is that the Steelers will designate Wallace with the highest restricted free agent tender, which would require a team to give up their first round pick if Wallace agrees to sign with them.

According to Scott Brown of the Pittsburgh Tribune Review, that's a very calculated risk for the Steelers.

Teams that would have had to give up first- and third-round picks in the past to sign Wallace only lose a first-round pick if they lure him away from the Steelers. That change in the collective bargaining agreement - and cost - has stirred speculation that Wallace will be one of the more sought-after free agents come March 13 at 4 p.m., with the line for his services forming behind San Francisco. Or New England. Or Cincinnati. Or Baltimore.

As Brown notes, however, it will still be unlikely that a team will be willing to hand over their first-round pick and pay the Pro-Bowl wide receiver a hefty contract, but the possibility is still there. The Steelers are really opening themselves up to potentially losing one of their biggest playmakers.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers' Wide Receivers The Best In AFC North

Should 49ers And Other Teams Be Willing To Lose First-Round Pick For Steelers' Mike Wallace?

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee argues that the San Francisco 49ers probably will not be serious players for Steelers wide receiver and restricted free agent Mike Wallace. The idea is that, because Wallace would cost the 49ers serious money and a draft pick, the price is too high.

In the end, the 49ers would not only give up the first-round pick but also some of the cap space earmarked for free agents. Wallace is good. But is he better than two players — say Pierre Garcon and Mohamed Sanu, or perhaps Janoris Jenkins and Vincent Jackson or Rueben Randle and Marques Colston — the 49ers could add this offseason?

Barrows points out that this year’s draft has a ton of wide receivers. The 49ers won’t be able to pick Justin Blackmon, and they probably can’t get Michael Floyd or Kendall Wright either. But there’s a ton of late-first-round or second-round talent out there — Sanu, Alshon Jeffery, Dwight Jones, Randle, Nick Toon, Marvin McNutt, and so on. So it might make more sense for the 49ers and other teams to look at other free agent options that won’t come with the cost of losing a draft pick.

Via Jim Wexell, via David Todd.

Check out Mocking The Draft's Top 100 draft prospects.

Ben Roethlisberger Restructures Contract With Steelers

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethisberger has agreed to restructure his contract with the team, according to Scott Brown of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. He joins Willie Colon, Lawrence Timmons, LaMarr Woodley and Ike Taylor on the list of Steelers players that have agreed to restructures this season. Pittsburgh is very much up against the cap, and will need to make even more moves in order to retain some key pieces and sign all of their draft picks.

Brown says that the move will clear up $8 million in cap room next season. That's being echoed by other reporters, and if that's the case, the Steelers' roster moves will have cleared up close to $30 million so far this offseason. This gets them closer to being able to franchise tag Mike Wallace or sign him to a long-term contract. If he's hit with a restricted free agent tender, he's likely to see an offer from another team.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Mike Wallace Free Agency: Colbert Expects Wide Receiver To Stay In Pittsburgh

In an interview with the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review at the NFL scouting combine, Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert says that he expects free agent wide receiver Mike Wallace to stay in Pittsburgh despite the growing interest in him with other teams. Despite the salary cap causing complications with a potential long term deal, Colbert expressed his confidence.

We want Mike to finish his career with the Steelers and I'm very confident that Mike wants to finish his career with the Steelers and play with a great quarterback like Ben Roethlisberger

The Steelers have until March 13 to clear enough cap space to be able to work with it. The Steelers would be able to be in compliance through cutting players and restructuring contracts to get under the cap.

If Wallace does indeed sign with another team, the Steelers would get a first round draft pick in compensation for the loss of the restricted free agent.

Steelers Mike Wallace Says He's Interested In Playing For 49ers And Patriots

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace is slated to be a restricted free agent and it's going to be tough to keep him in Pittsburgh. The Steelers are currently over the salary cap and will have to purge salary in order to sign Mike Wallace long-term. They'll also need to purge salary to even franchise tag Wallace. It's likely that the Steelers will designate the restricted free agent with a first-round tender, but the fear is a team will still be willing to part with the first-round pick to sign Wallace. Wallace doesn't seem to be opposed to playing elsewhere, either.

"Most definitely. Those are two playoff-caliber teams. Super Bowl-caliber teams," Wallace said on Sirius NFL radio about the prospect of playing for the San Francisco 49ers or New England Patriots. "I think that the right person or the right piece for those guys could put them over the top. All they need is one more piece ... most definitely, those are Super Bowl-contending teams."

Possibly realizing the potential fire he could have started with his comments, Wallace later clarified that the situation would have to be similar to what he has with the Steelers. "I wouldn't want to go anywhere and leave the situation where I am at with a great quarterback, a great organization or go somewhere where I don't feel like I could succeed."

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency: Mike Wallace Talks About Contract Negotiations

In an interview on SiriusXM radio Wednesday afternoon, Steelers free agent wide receiver Mike Wallace talked about his ongoing contract negotiations. He also mentioned that while he would like to spend the rest of his career in Pittsburgh, there is a chance it could not be beneficial for both himself and the team.

"(Pittsburgh is) where I would like to be, but we all know that it is a business and you have certain things you have to handle," Wallace said. "So if I have to go elsewhere, you know Pittsburgh will always be in my heart, but I have to do what I have to do."

The Steelers are currently several million dollars over the cap, so they still need to find a way to make room franchise tag Wallace. If that's the route they choose, they'll need to do clear enough space to do it by March 5. If the Steelers do not re-sign Wallace and he opts to sign with another team, Pittsburgh would be compensated with a first round draft pick, but Pittsburgh will make Wallace a priority, and will make every effort to keep him.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Will Charlie Batch Return?

Dave Bryan of Steelers Depot asks whether Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch will be back with the team next year.

The Steelers also could toy with the idea of trying to groom a late round draft pick or carry former Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith, who they signed to a futures contract this offseason, as the third string quarterback ... Batch also will be allowed to sit on the free agency sidelines for a while until the Steelers get their salary cap issues and training camp roster straightened out. Right now I would say that there is a good chance that Batch will be signed to a one-year qualifying contract and get a chance to win a roster spot, most likely as the third string quarterback.

That sounds about right. As Bryan notes later, it's tough to see Batch signing somewhere else, and he's certainly not going to be a high priority, so for the Steelers, there's no harm in waiting to sign him again.

Batch performed capably in a game against the Rams in late December, but his leadership probably trumps his play at this point, and the Steelers would be in trouble if they had to depend on him. Still, he'll probably be back once the Steelers sort out their quarterbacks behind Ben Roethlisberger. Fellow quarterbacks Byron Leftwich and Dennis Dixon are unrestricted free agents as well.

Steelers Salary Cap: Willie Colon Agrees To Restructured Contract

Last week a report emerged that stated Steelers tackle Willie Colon would be unwilling to take a pay cut to help the Steelers get under the salary cap, despite the fact that Colon missed most of last season with an injury. Colon has, however, agreed to restructure his deal with the Steelers so that his salary will be staggered.

#steelers restructure OT Willie Colon contract to save cap space. $3.8 M of his $4.5 M salary for 2012 becomes bonus pro rated over 4 years

— Ed Bouchette (@EdBouchette) February 21, 2012

Steelers Depot has a little bit more information on just how much money against the cap the Steelers will be saving as a result of this Contract.

The restructure on Willie Colon drops his 2012 cap hit from $5.7 million down to $2.85 million. #steelers

— Steelers Depot (@Steelersdepot) February 21, 2012

That's not a ton of money, but every little bit helps when there is as much work to do as the Steelers need done to get under the cap.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Salary Cap: Speculation About Mike Wallace Might Be 'Smoke Screen'

Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace's restricted free agent status has been a big story so far this offseason, with speculation flying around that any number of teams, particularly good teams and other teams in the Steelers' AFC North division, could try to steal Wallace from Pittsburgh. But Neal Coolong of Behind The Steel Curtain thinks that's mostly a "smoke screen."

From Wallace's perspective, if he gets a franchise tag from Pittsburgh, he gains leverage. They're willing to give him (estimated) $9.6 million this season, he's going to want a large chunk of that very soon in a long-term extension. Other teams are likely to figure this out, and it won't cost them a dime to simply tell a beat reporter they're interested in Wallace, and let the Speculation Machine that is NFL off-season news do its thing.

The idea here is that the Patriots and Browns aren't great fits for Wallace. Coolong argues that the Ravens and Bengals might not be that likely to give Wallace a big new contract either. Despite that, Coolong says, the Steelers will have little choice but to make cap room to assign Wallace the franchise tag. It won't be easy for the Steelers, and whatever the Patriots and the Steelers' divisional opponents might think about it, what's bad for the Steelers is good for them.

Steelers' Mike Wallace Could Be Target Of Teams With Late First Round Draft Picks

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a bit of a dilemma on their hands with the case of restricted free agent Mike Wallace. Currently, the Steelers are over the cap and will need to purge some salary. They also have their star wide receiver scheduled to be a free agent in the coming weeks. Wallace is a restricted free agent, so the Steelers can tender him with a first-round pick tag. This means that if a team signs Wallace to an offer sheet in the offseason, the Steelers can match that deal or acquire the team's first round pick.

SB Nation's Mocking The Draft takes a look at some teams that could realistically pull off a deal to send their first round pick to the Steelers to acquire Mike Wallace. Some of the team's that it makes sense for include two divisional rivals in the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens. It makes sense for those two teams in a couple of ways. For one, it hurts a divisional opponent by taking away arguably their biggest offensive threat outside of Ben Roethlisberger, and secondly it allows those teams to add to a position of dire need.

Both the Ravens and the Browns have late first round picks, and the likelihood either one picks a playmaker of Wallace's caliber is relatively low. The Ravens, especially, are in a position to win now, so it makes all the sense in the world. Ideally, however, the Steelers would like to clear enough cap room to keep Wallace for the long haul.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

2012 Steelers Offseason: Willie Colon Unwilling To Take Pay Cut, According To Report

It's been a tough couple of years for Steelers tackle Willie Colon. He missed the 2010 season after injuring his Achilles tendon in offseason workouts, and missed most of this past season after tearing his triceps in Week 1 against the Ravens. As a result, the Seelers have had a hard time protecting Ben Roethlisberger. But despite all of his issues, Colon is unwilling to take a pay cut, according to Dave Bryan of Steelers Depot.

Colon has a base salary of $4.5 million in 2012, but he represents a $5.7 million cap hit for the team. He would figure to be a prime candidate to get cut considering the Steelers need to get under the cap, but they don't have a good replacement for him and he wouldn't represent enough savings to let the Steelers sign an adequate replacement.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: How Much Money Could Steelers Save By Releasing Hines Ward?

Rumors have been coming out over the past few weeks that the Steelers are considering releasing longtime wide receiver Hines Ward, even though Ward is willing to restructure his contract to stay with the team. Our Steelers blog Behind The Steel Curtain caught up with Brian McIntyre of Football Outsiders who breaks down just how much money the Steelers could save by jettisoning Ward.

$4 million is a lot of cash to pay a 36-year-old wide receiver who averaged 8.3 yards per reception, so he may have to lower his base salary to the veteran minimum ($925,000) and hope to make the rest up via incentives. Following the same restructure model as Smith, Timmons and Woodley -- lowering his base to the league minimum, paying the rest in a signing bonus -- even spreading that out over the maximum five seasons, would save the Steelers $2.46 million. Releasing Ward outright would clear $3.39 million.

So if everything breaks correctly and Ward is willing to take the league minimum then it seems like they could save just under a million dollars by releasing him. I think it would be hard to justify for fans that they won't keep Ward around for under a million if he is willing to take the league minimum to stay with the team.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Mike Wallace To Be A Priority, Steelers GM Says

In an interview with local station 105.9 The X, Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert covered many topics, including the likely release of Hines Ward and Rashard Mendenhall's injury. But something else that came up was the organization's commitment to re-sign wide receiver Mike Wallace when free agency begins.

Mike Wallace will be a restricted free agent and there are different levels that he can be tendered and we are certainly going to protect our interest there because Mike has proven himself to be a Pro Bowl player, who still hasn't fully reached his potential. We hope that Mike is going to be here for years to come and really it reflects on not on one player versus another but really it's our 53 man roster and what those cap numbers will be for the whole group collectively, and how we can manage it. But it will always be with the philosophy that we want to keep our young and ascending players right here with us.

Wallace is definitely a rising talent who has proved his worth for the Steelers the last few years. There's really no question he'll be back next year; the only issue is how the Steelers handle him going forward.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Salary Cap: Ben Roethlisberger, James Harrison Could Re-Work Contracts

The Trib reports that Ben Roethlisberger and James Harrison might be willing to re-work their contracts in order to help the Steelers get under the salary cap.

The agents for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and outside linebacker James Harrison said their clients are agreeable to restructuring their contracts before the start of the NFL’s new year. Teams have to be under the 2012 salary cap by 4 p.m. March 13.

The Steelers have spent the past couple weeks trying to shed salary, and they’ve already gotten Lawrence Timmons, Ike Taylor and LaMarr Woodley to adjust their contract in order to make cap room. They also released Bryant McFadden and Arnaz Battle. They may end up releasing veteran receiver Hines Ward as well, despite Ward being willing to take a pay cut.

Of course, the practice of restructuring contracts to make cap room isn’t unusual, especially for the Steelers. The Trib notes that Roethlisberger and Harrison both restructured their deals last year as well.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Free Agency 2012: Pittsburgh Could Use Franchise Tag On Mike Wallace

Wide receiver was one of the more populated and productive units for the Steelers last year, but thanks to some expiring contracts and positional crowding, it could lead to some turnover this offseason. Mike Wallace is the most productive of the bunch, and the Steelers are going to do everything in their power to bring him back into the fold. According to Scott Brown, that could mean using the franchise tag on him.

Steelers could use franchise tag on WR Mike Wallace. Colbert, like Art Rooney II, said signing him to a long-term deal is a priority.

— Scott Brown (@ScottBrown_Trib) February 13, 2012

Brown followed up with an interview with GM Kevin Colbert at the Trib and Colbert explained their stance on Wallace a little bit further.

Any of our young players that have opportunities of getting contracts elsewhere, especially when they’re young, ascending players, sure we want to keep them and they all become priorities. Certainly Mike has done a lot to establish himself as a Pro Bowl receiver and we want to try to keep Mike here for the long run.

A franchise tag would pay Wallace a little bit less than $10 million and give the Steelers exclusive negotiating rights to try and iron out a long-term deal. They can also extend a first-round tender worth less than $3 million, but that would enable Wallace to negotiate with other teams and could force the Steelers to match a contract they don't want to pay or risk losing him to another club.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

NFL Free Agency 2012: Jerricho Cotchery Looking For Long-Term Deal With Pittsburgh Steelers

While the headlines in Pittsburgh revolve around the Steelers' offseason dance with Hines Ward, another wide receiver expressed his desire on Monday night to sign a long-term deal and finish out his career in Pittsburgh. Jerricho Cotchery told Jenny Vrentas of the Newark Star-Ledger that returning to the Steelers would be an "ideal situation." Vrentas reported in her piece that Cotchery was looking for a four- or five-year deal, as the former Jet, who's spent only one season in Pittsburgh, expressed a strong desire to stay in Western Pennsylvania.

Via Jenny Vrentas of The Star-Ledger:

I'm everything that they thought I would be, so from their standpoint, they definitely would want me back. And I expressed the same desire, so we'll see what happens.

Cotchery spent seven seasons with the Jets before signing a one-year deal with the Steelers last summer in the mad-dash week of free agency after the lockout ended. He caught 16 balls for 237 yards and two touchdowns last season, and served as a nice slot receiver supporting Antonio Brown and Mike Wallace. While Cotchery and the Steelers appear to have mutual admiration and interest in continuing a relationship, the realities of the salary cap may prevent a multiyear deal for the supporting piece.

For more on the Steelers offseason, check out this SB Nation Pittsburgh StoryStream. For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Pittsburgh Steelers Not Expecting Much From Rashard Mendenhall In 2012

The Pittsburgh Steelers front-office brass are not expecting much out of running back Rashard Mendenhall in 2012-13 season. General manager Kevin Colbert spoke to the Pittsburgh media Monday, and said the Steelers are planning for life without Mendenhall, who is recovering from a torn ACL that happened during a Jan. 1 regular-season game against the Cleveland Browns.

"I never feel good about an ACL for a year." said Colbert.

However, according to ESPN.com's Jamison Hensley, the Steelers are in good shape when it comes to depth at that position.

Pittsburgh should feel good about backup Isaac Redman after he ran for 121 yards in the playoff loss at Denver. But there is no certainty that he can handle a full workload for an extended amount of games. There are also questions about his ability to hold onto the ball.

Beyond Redman, there are promising running backs in Jonathan Dwyer, John Clay and Baron Batch. The problem is, they have a combined 35 carries in the NFL.

Steelers Say No Decision Yet On Hines Ward; Rashard Mendenhall Might Start 2012 On PUP List

More: Ward: 'I want to be here, I want to play.'

Steelers Depot collects a couple updates regarding wide receiver Hines Ward and running back Rashard Mendenhall.

Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert says, first, that the Steelers have not decided whether to bring Ward back this season. Jason La Canfora recently reported that the Steelers had already decided against bringing Ward back, but the Steelers are denying that’s the case. Ward’s role with the team was sharply reduced in 2011. He is set to make $4 million in 2011, but has repeatedly indicated that he would be amenable to a pay cut.

Colbert also notes that it’s possible that Mendenhall, who has a torn ACL, could begin the 2012 season on the PUP list. The Steelers should be in reasonably good shape with Isaac Redman as their top running back, but they will probably also seek depth at the position this offseason, perhaps in the form of a late-round draft pick.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Hines Ward Still Doesn't Know Status With Steelers

Dejan Kovacevic argues that the Steelers are "disrespecting" veteran wide receiver Hines Ward by not letting him know about his status for 2012.

So why, according to Ward's representatives, has there been no formal contact from the team in the month and change since season's end?

And, way, way above that, who from the Steelers could have had the audacity to leak word to NFL Network — with the news broken Friday night by veteran reporter Jason La Canfora — that they don't want Ward back for 2012?

Those are good questions, especially the second one. Ward's contract calls for him to be paid $4 million next season, although he has said he would be willing to play for the Steelers for less. The Steelers are currently restructuring a number of contracts, trying to get under the salary cap, and Kovacevic suggests maybe the leak was a way of motivating Ward to sign for less than he ordinarily would. If that's the case, though, that seems like a nasty move to make on a player who has spent his whole career with the team. And if the Steelers are planning on cutting Ward, it might be a good idea to tell him.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers Have Not Told Hines Ward What They Plan To Do With Him, According To Report

Scott Brown of the Trib reports that, as of Sunday afternoon, the Steelers had not informed wide receiver Hines Ward of his status with the team in 2012.

Hines Ward’s representatives have yet to hear from Steelers.

Steelers Depot has more context on this. Basically, by March 1, the Steelers have to tell Ward what they plan to do with him.

Ward’s role with the Steelers was sharply reduced in 2011 as Antonio Brown joined Mike Wallace as a young star at wide receiver. Also, Ward will turn 36 in March, and most wide receivers are long gone by that age.

Steelers Depot notes that cutting Ward would give the Steelers $3.39 million in salary cap room in 2012. Ward has, however, said that he would be willing to take a pay cut in order to finish his career in black and gold. At this point, however, it’s unclear if the Steelers will have any use for him.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Hines Ward Won't Return To Steelers In 2012, According To Report

Jason La Canfora says that the Steelers will not have wide receiver Hines Ward return in 2012.

More: Salary Cap Issues, Part III

But NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora told "NFL Total Access" Friday that Ward won’t be back next season, according to his sources.

As the Steelers work to restructure contracts and manuever below the salary cap, the circumstances are dictating the twilight of Ward’s 14-year career. On the books, he has one year and $4 million left on his current contract. On the field, Ward also took a backseat to youngsters Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown, posting his lowest receiving totals since his rookie season in 1998.

This is no great surprise. Throughout the 2011 season, Ward was dogged by questions about whether that year would be his last with the Steelers. Pittsburgh already has two young stars in Wallace and Brown, and a good third option in Emmanuel Sanders.

Ward caught 46 passes for 381 yards in 2011. That included five catches against Cleveland in the final game of the regular season, which gave Ward 1,000 catches for his career.

Ward, 35, has been with the Steelers since his rookie season in 1998.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers, Ike Taylor Restructure Contract, According To Report

More: Salary Cap Issues Part 2

Pro Football Talk reports that the Steelers have restructured the contract of cornerback Ike Taylor as part of their continuing effort to get under the salary cap.

A source with knowledge of the situation tells PFT that cornerback Ike Taylor, who signed a four-year deal with the Steelers before the 2011 season, has converted the maximum amount of his $5.75 million base salary for 2012 into a signing bonus. Since the minimum base salary for a player with Taylor’s experience is $825,00, the team was able to give him $4.925 million now.

The maneuver pushed $3.28 million in cap space into future years, pushing the total cap space created by three restructurings to nearly $15 million.

The Steelers also recently restructured the contracts of LaMarr Woodley and Lawrence Timmons, and they also released Arnaz Battle and Bryant McFadden. They will likely continue to make moves to clear salary-cap space.

Taylor is unfortunately probably now best known for his awful performance in the Steelers’ first-round playoff loss against the Denver Broncos, but he’s the Steelers’ top cornerback.

Via Steelers Depot.

For more on the Steelers, check out Behind The Steel Curtain.

Steelers' Lawrence Timmons, LaMarr Woodley Restructure Contracts

Going into the NFL offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers were an estimated $25 million over the salary cap. With their moves over the last two days, they're more than halfway towards getting under. The Steelers restructured the contracts of linebackers Lawrence Timmons and LaMarr Woodley on Thursday, cutting the cap numbers' of both players considerably without making them take pay cuts.

More: Salary Cap Issues - Part 1

Between those two restructures and other moves, the Steelers have cut more than $15 million from their payroll for next season. Aaron Smith, Casey Hampton, Hines Ward, James Farrior and Larry Foote will all either take pay cuts or be released, while the Steelers will also likely attempt to restructure the contracts of Ben Roethlisberger and Troy Polamalu to make up for the amount they're currently spending over the cap.

Both Woodley and Timmons have been key contributors for their entire five-year Steelers careers, and getting both players re-structured in the offseason was a top priority for the team. They will now move on to the more difficult business of what to do with their expensive veterans.

For more on the Steelers' roster moves, head over to Pittsburgh Steelers blog Behind The Steel Curtain.

2012 NFL Free Agency: Pittsburgh Steelers Face Tough Salary Cap Decisions

The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently right up against the salary cap, and will have to make a number of roster moves before free agency starts to keep everything in order. A number of aging players are on very large salaries in Pittsburgh, while some of the team's key contributors are restricted or unrestricted free agents. Some players who have been members of the Steelers for approximately a decade will have to pack their bags or agree to pay cuts if they want to stick around.

Pittsburgh Steelers blog Behind The Steel Curtain is taking a look at the Steelers' salary cap issues. Hines Ward has said he will take a pay cut, while Casey Hampton and Aaron Smith will not be kept around at their current salaries. The biggest issue probably lies with inside linebackers Larry Foote and James Farrior.

With James Farrior and Larry Foote - the current buck linebackers - it seems at least one of them will have to take a paycut to stay in town. The Steelers could decide to cut one and reduce the contract of the other, but the main concern with this is depth. The buck is the quarterback of the defense - the guy who makes the pre-snap adjustments at the line. The Steelers will not find anyone this year more experienced and ready to play the position in this regard than Farrior or Foote, so the release of either of them will hurt this team on the field in the short run. It's something that likely has to be done though, so expect the Steelers to find someone in this year's draft to groom for the spot in 2013.

In addition to cuts and pay cuts with veteran players, the Steelers could also opt to re-structure Ben Roethlisberger and Troy Polamalu to create some cap flexibility. Also, star wide receiver Mike Wallace is a restricted free agent, and the Steelers could have to make the decision to match a large contract or accept a first-round pick in return. He will certainly be given a first-round tender, and will be due $2.742 million next season if a team does not sign him to an offer sheet.

For more on the Steelers' salary cap issues and free agency dealings, head over to Pittsburgh Steelers blog Behind The Steel Curtain.

2012 NFL Free Agency: Steelers Release Bryant McFadden, Arnaz Battle

The Steelers kicked off the offseason by releasing wide receiver Arnaz battle and former playoff hero Bryant McFadden.