PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Brought in to help stabilize their secondary and play different roles in the secondary, the Steelers reportedly released defensive back Patrick Peterson.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter first to report that Peterson was let go with one year left on his two-year, $14 million contract.
The 33-year-old started the season at corner and after being critical of San Francisco quarterback Brock Purdy, was beaten for a couple of touchdowns. As the secondary returned players, he moved to a more hybrid role and then after injuries at safety, Peterson played at that position for the first time in his career. He would start 16 of 17 games with the Steelers with a pair of interceptions, 11 passes defensed and 42 tackles (34 solo).
A future Hall of Famer, Peterson did work closely in mentoring second-round pick Joey Porter, Junior who eventually became a fixture at corner during his rookie season. Porter often talked about the advice Peterson shared with him and Peterson said he embraced the chance to help Porter.
With Peterson’s release following that of Keanu Neal (unable to pass a physical), the Steelers currently have only Minkah Fitzpatrick, Damontae Kazee, Jalen Elliott and Trenton Thompson on the roster at safety.