3 reasons why Cameron Sutton extension should be top priority for Steelers

The price is right

Cameron Sutton certainly has done himself some big favors as his payday rapidly approaches. However, as just a part-time player for the Steelers so far at this point, he hasn’t done so much that he has priced himself outside of Pittsburgh’s range. Mike Hilton, on the other hand, may have already done that after playing 56 games for the team over the past four years as the starting nickel cornerback.

According to Sportrac.com, Sutton is projected to make $7.2 million in annual salary on his next contract. While this seems like a lot, he would no doubt be a starting cornerback for the Steelers next season, and this is actually quite the bargain. Compared to an older player who hasn’t performed as well, like Bengals CB Makenzie Alexander, Sutton is still projected to be cheaper.

Additionally, Steven Nelson and Joe Haden are set to make $14.4 million and $15.5 million respectively next year, and cutting either one of them would give Pittsburgh the cap space they need to lock up Sutton long-term (assuming they cut back in a few other areas to get under the cap as well). While a player like Bud Dupree or JuJu Smith-Schuster might make a bigger impact, they will no doubt be at least double the price. Keeping Sutton gives the Steelers the best bang for their buck.