The Steelers have parted ways with cornerback Patrick Peterson, despite his notable contributions during the past season, where he played nearly all of Pittsburgh’s defensive snaps. However, given Peterson’s upcoming 34th birthday in July, it’s evident that his performance may have slightly declined as he entered his 30s.
With the likelihood of a roster opening for a cornerback position with the Cowboys, especially if veteran Stephon Gilmore’s tenure at The Star was merely temporary, Peterson has emerged as a potential candidate for Dallas. His past experience under coach Mike Zimmer in Minnesota, combined with Zimmer’s current role as the team’s defensive coordinator, adds to the intrigue of Peterson joining the Cowboys as an affordable veteran option.
Peterson enjoyed his prime years in Arizona, where he was drafted as the No. 5 overall pick in 2011. He earned eight Pro Bowl selections during his tenure with the Cardinals, along with three All-Pro nods.
Considering the Cowboys’ financial constraints in free agency, particularly with promising players like Daron Bland and the expected return of Trevon Diggs, they may need to explore alternative options to bolster their cornerback depth. By releasing Peterson, Pittsburgh cleared over $6 million in cap space, as he was operating under a two-year, $14 million contract signed last season.
The Cowboys, facing potential departures of key cornerbacks such as Stephon Gilmore, C.J. Goodwin, and Jourdan Lewis, could benefit from Peterson’s veteran presence. While he may not deliver the same level of performance as in his prime, Peterson’s versatility and experience could complement players like Bland and Diggs. Last season, he registered 42 tackles for the Steelers, his lowest tally since 2017.
In a noteworthy shift, Peterson’s role with Pittsburgh saw him increasingly utilized in the slot and occasionally at free safety, a departure from his previous assignments primarily as an outside cornerback. Despite these adjustments, he remains a valuable asset for teams seeking defensive depth.
Regarding Diggs’ recovery from surgery, team vice president Stephen Jones indicated that while Diggs will attend the team’s offseason activities in two months, he may not actively participate due to his recent surgery. However, Jones expressed confidence in Diggs’ readiness for training camp, highlighting Diggs’ resilience and dedication to his rehabilitation process.
