Most intriguing free agent fits for Steelers during 2023

Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne (94) Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne (94) Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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Arizona Cardinals cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. (7) Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Steelers may look elsewhere at slot corner

On the defensive side of the ball, there are also concerns about who will be covering the slot there next season. Cameron Sutton has manned that role with a lot of success this season, but he is a pending free agent after 2022. While the Steelers would be fools not to offer him a deal, he will likely test free agency and see what other teams can offer him.

Assuming he departs, a name that sticks out as a great addition would be Byron Murphy. The Cardinal cornerback has developed into one of the better slot players in the league since being drafted early in the second round. He can’t play along the outside, but he has grown into being an above-average slot player.

He is still extremely young at just 25 years old and the Steelers had a lot of pre-draft interest in him. Connecting those dots, the team may be quick to sign him if they can’t retain Sutton in the offseason. The draft can be focused on finding a better outside option while Murphy holds down the slot job.