3 top-flight cornerbacks Steelers must go after in 2022 free agency

The Steelers will look to a loaded free agency class to boost the team’s cornerback unit.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been pretty strong defensively the last couple of seasons, but the unit has shown some weaknesses. With Defensive Player of the Year candidate T.J. Watt on the front, and ball-hawking safety Minkah Fitzpatrick at safety, the inferior group on this unit has been the cornerbacks.

The current starters are Cameron Sutton and Joe Haden, and while they haven’t been special, they’ve been serviceable. However, at the conclusion of this season, Haden will be a free agent and Sutton will have one year left on his contract— further weakening this unit.

Fortunately for the Steelers, the 2022 free-agency will be loaded, especially with corners. Pittsburgh is projected to have nearly $46 million in cap space this off-season, so they will have the ability to aggressively pursue players that will fill their needs. Here are the 3 corners the Steelers must go after in the 2022 free agency:

3. Steelers must pursue Carlton Davis

Carlton Davis is the starting corner for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and played a huge role on the defense that led them to last season’s Super Bowl. Davis is currently on the last season of his four-year rookie contract.

With the success being had in Tampa, it’s wise to assume Davis will want to return to the Buccaneers, however, it won’t be easy. Tampa Bay was able to do the unthinkable and bring back all of their Super Bowl starters, unlikely that they do it again.

Davis likely will be seeking top corner money which is around $15 million annually or higher. The Buccaneers will have a number of free agents they hope to resign, so it’s unlikely they can fulfill his financial desires.

If the Buccaneers do not franchise tag Davis, the Steelers have to have him as a top free-agent target. He’s 24, Pittsburgh can afford to pay him, and he fills an obvious need.