Key Takeaways:
– Aaron Schatz of ESPN advises the Steelers to re-sign Ahkello Witherspoon for secondary depth.
– Witherspoon, despite his initial struggles, had a stellar season with the Rams.
– The signing could be a cost-effective move for the Steelers due to Witherspoon’s age.
– The Steelers’ secondary has seen various changes this offseason, making extra depth crucial.
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ Next Move
In an unexpected turn of events, ESPN’s Aaron Schatz has suggested that the Pittsburgh Steelers should consider re-signing cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon, contrary to popular opinion favouring veterans Patrick Peterson or Chandon Sullivan. Schatz believes this should be the Steelers’ next strategic move before the summer training camp commences.
Ahkello Witherspoon – An Underrated Asset
Should the Steelers decide to take Schatz’s advice, they’d be signing a player who just had an impressive season with the Los Angeles Rams. Although Witherspoon had a shaky start to his career – even losing his starting role within the Steelers themselves in 2022 – he rebounded and excelled with the Rams, posting career-high stats. Particular standouts were his 52 combined tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 14 pass defenses, and 3 interceptions.
In light of these achievements, Schatz referred to Witherspoon as a surprisingly positive addition to any team. He reasoned that despite being 29 years old, Witherspoon would likely be an affordable signing and could readily serve as a backup for all three Steelers starters.
Past Steelers’ Impact on Witherspoon’s Career
Witherspoon’s time with the Steelers was a rollercoaster ride. Despite making a weak debut, he managed to claw his way back into the lineup during 2021 and finished with 3 interceptions in the following eight games. Despite a setback during the 2022 season where his performance was ranked relatively low, Witherspoon managed to regain his stride with the Rams, contributing to a successful season.
Pittsburgh Steelers in Need of Secondary Depth
Major changes have happened in the Steeler’s secondary this year. Patrick Peterson’s release and allowing Sullivan and Levi Wallace to depart in free agency has left a vacuum. This, coupled with the imminent threat of Cameron Sutton facing a suspension due to domestic violence violations, increases the urgency for depth reinforcement.
Recent additions Donte Jackson and Cameron Sutton, as well as the youthful quartet of Darius Rush, Cory Trice Jr., Ryan Watts, and Beanie Bishop Jr., are promising but lack notable NFL experiences. As Sutton’s availability might be questionable for a significant time in 2024, the need for an additional seasoned cornerback goes without saying. In this scenario, someone like Witherspoon, who can operate both outside and in the slot, seems a logical choice.
As Ross McCorkle from Steelers Depot puts it, if Witherspoon is open to a “cheap” one-year deal, he would be an excellent pick to compete against the likes of Cory Trice Jr., Darius Rush, Anthony Averett, and others. The opportunity lies not just in what he brings to the table, but the minimal associated risk. The potential upside in this deal heightens when weighed against the alternatives, Peterson or Sullivan.
As the summer training camp looms with potential challenges, bringing Witherspoon back might just be the pivotal move the Steelers require. It could be the key ingredient for a well-rounded and resilient team eager to make their mark in the upcoming season.