Rumors have been swirling that the Steelers are interested in welcoming back former cornerback Keenan Lewis. A recent Instagram post from Lewis may have indicated his return.
Following his recent release from the New Orleans Saints, Keenan Lewis is in need of a new football home. While he’s drawn interest from a number of teams, Lewis is scheduled to meet with the Steelers in Pittsburgh today.
Prior to the Tuesday meeting, however, Lewis posted the following on his Instagram:
Of course, this post is no guarantee that Lewis will re-sign with the Steelers. However, based on other posts, it’s clear that Lewis is indeed in the Steelers facility.
Chris Adamski of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review says that Lewis has yet to officially sign, likely because of a nagging hip injury. Last season with the Saints, Lewis missed extended time due to MCL, sports hernia and labrum surgeries.
To be clear, Keenan Lewis has NOT officially signed (yet anyway). One former teammate said Lewis told him he's still hurt for another 6 wks
— Chris Adamski (@C_AdamskiTrib) August 24, 2016
A third-round draft pick by the Steelers in 2009, Lewis gradually worked his way up to become a starter in Pittsburgh.
Lewis had his breakout season in 2012 with the Steelers, recording 71 total tackles and 23 passes defended. He started all sixteen regular season games that year. His departure was one of the key factors leading to the decimation of the Steelers secondary.
Lewis initially shined with the Saints, but that flame went out rather abruptly.
He tallied four interceptions in 2013, followed by two in 2014; last season, Lewis didn’t start a single game due to injuries.
At 6’1″ and 208 pounds, Lewis has the height that the Steelers have been missing at cornerback. Although the injuries will surely complicate matters, Lewis could make an impact on the Steelers defense once he returns to full health.
Even if he settles into a depth role, Lewis has the tools to help bolster a Steelers pass defense in need of assistance.
Stats used via NFL.com.