The Steelers improve their defense with an underrated move.
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We're in the middle of the NFL offseason with the Draft now in the rear-view mirror. However, there are still plenty of roster moves teams can make thanks to the free agency pool. With that in mind, it looks like the Pittsburgh Steelers made a move to improve the defense.
Reports indicate the Steelers officially signed veteran cornerback, Anthony Averett after his minicamp tryout, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. Pittsburgh reels in a solid contributor who will now compete for playing time on a new team.
“After a minicamp tryout, the Steelers have signed veteran DB Anthony Averett, most recently of the Lions and 49ers.”
Anthony Averett was most recently on the practice squads for both the San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions. However, he spent the first four years of his career with the Baltimore Ravens. He also played for the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2022 season. Throughout his career, Averett has recorded 114 total tackles, 23 pass deflections, and three interceptions.
The Steelers always seem to have a great defense and it's largely due to having superstars and depth behind them. Anthony Averett should at least provide some solid depth if he makes the final roster. It's not clear if Averett will play at cornerback or safety. But either way there is plenty of competition at those positions.
If Averett makes the final roster he's more likely to play on special teams. He can provide some consistency there and help bring down the return man. But nothing is guaranteed in the NFL and Averett will have to prove himself as an asset for the Steelers to give him playing time.
Steelers 2024 season outlook
The Steelers are always in the playoff hunt thanks to Mike Tomlin, as he's never had a losing record as a head coach. So, it's safe to say Pittsburgh will be back in the mix once again next season. However, the franchise will hope play much better than a middle of the road team and go on a deep playoff run.
It'll be interesting to see how it plays out for this club. The front office decided to move on from Kenny Pickett after trading him to the Philadelphia Eagles. Russell Wilson is deemed the likely starter while Justin Fields will at least compete for the starting job.
The Steelers have a solid roster throughout but the quarterback position has hindered their chances for several years now. Wilson actually looked solid last season so there's a chance he shines in Pittsburgh. Additionally, Fields is an amazing athlete who is incredibly dangerous with his legs.
We should expect the defense to carry this team in most of their games next season. But the offensive attack should look different now that Arthur Smith is the offensive coordinator. Overall, the Steelers should bring a consistent rushing attack that can potentially open up the passing game. Based on Mike Tomlin's history, Pittsburgh should be in the mix to win at least nine games.
