Nov 17, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Ike Taylor celebrates an interception as Detroit Lions Calvin Johnson (81) reacts during the second half at Heinz Field. Pittsburgh won the game, 37-27. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Ike Taylor reported himself via Twitter on Monday afternoon that he will indeed be back in Pittsburgh for his 12th season. The terms of the contract agreement haven’t yet been released but it’s most likely that the veteran cornerback agreed to a pay-cut in order to remain on the roster.
The INK is about to dry on this paper...im a LIFER...#6BURGHfoalldemhatas...will retire as a ROONEY and a LEBEAU...✌️
— . (@Ike_SwagginU) March 10, 2014
Ike was scheduled to make $7 million in his base salary for 2014 but his cap hit was more toward $12 million. While his play was a step back in 2013, Ike has spent most of his career being an underrated cornerback in the league. He’s never afraid to hit, which is what had many thinking that he might be moved to a safety position, if kept on the team. Most likely though, he will end up on the field alongside Cortez Allen and William Gay in their 3 cornerback packages.
With all the speculation over the past few days at the cornerbacks the Steelers have been looking at in free agency does this mean that they will rest with Taylor and not pursue other corners? Only time will tell as the free agency period is just about ready to not only heat up but boil over by Tuesday afternoon when the 2014 league year officially begins.
The Steelers already made one move today, although not official until tomorrow, the team cut LB LaMarr Woodley. With the cut of Woodley and now the extension/possible pay-cut of Taylor, the Steelers have a lot more cap room heading into free agency.
What are your thoughts, Steeler Nation? Do you agree with keeping Ike Taylor in Black & Gold? Do you think the Steelers will still pursue other cornerbacks in free agency?
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