5 recent cap casualties that the Steelers need to consider

Golden Tate

While there is a clear want for JuJu Smith-Schuster to be brought back by both sides, his likely contract number may keep the team from being able to sign him. If he leaves, the team will need to find a new slot option as the other receivers on the roster are best served as outside options. The recently released Golden Tate could be a solid add assuming he is willing to play on a cheaper contract.

Tate is clearly a player regressing, but he could be serviceable as the third option on the team and the primary slot receiver. He was never a receiver that relied on elite speed to win, instead using quickness and run after the catch ability to make his big plays. While his routes aren’t as sharp, he would benefit from being on a team that wouldn’t rely on him being the main threat.

Some will question his age, but the Steelers have signed older veteran receivers in the past like Jerricho Cotchery (29 when signed) and Lance Moore (31 when signed). The real question is what kind of a contract he can get. Middle-of-the-pack receivers can get hefty contracts, so Tate would have to be willing to take a two-year deal worth less than he may get from other teams. That said, if the price was right, he would be a great option to replace Smith-Schuster in the slot short term.