Steelers: Could 2016 Be Miller’s Last Season in Pittsburgh?

Nov 1, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Heath Miller (83) catches passes before playing the Cincinnati Bengals at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Heath Miller (83) catches passes before playing the Cincinnati Bengals at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

Heath Miller has been a staple in the Steel City since being drafted in 2005. Whether they’re at home or on the road, everyone knows when he makes a catch.

This article was hard to write. I love Heath Miller, as I’m sure 95% of people reading this love him, too. As Steelers fans, there is a tough question that we must face: will this be Heath Miller’s last season in Pittsburgh?

Miller has managed to remain consistent during his 11 year career. Since coming into the league, Miller has 592 receptions, 6569 receiving yards and 45 touchdowns. #83 has never been one of those “flashy” tight-ends, but he’s been a staple in Pittsburgh’s offense for years.

With the passing game opening up more and more over the last 20 years, the tight-end position has evolved from just run-blocking and catching a pass once in awhile, to run-blocking and catching a lot of passes. Since the Steelers have the 25th pick in the first-round of this year’s draft, most of the players at key positions could be gone. The top TE prospect in the 2016 draft is Hunter Henry. If he’s sitting there at 25, should the Steelers take him? I’m not sure it would make much sense right now, since the Steelers have Jesse James right behind Miller. Now, we’re not sure what James will become, but he’s shown some good things this last season.

Heath Miller has never been a selfish guy. He comes to work everyday, listens to the coaches and serves his team well. Obviously, I could be wrong, but I don’t think 2016 will be Miller’s last season in Black & Gold. I think he plays at least two more years before retiring. In order for this Steelers offense to thrive they need the consistency that Heath Miller brings.

Let’s hope that Heeeeaaaaaath sticks around for a few more years.

Here we go, Steelers! Here we go!