The Buffalo Bills are undergoing a significant roster overhaul, releasing players to address…
The Buffalo Bills are undergoing a significant roster overhaul, releasing players to address salary cap concerns. As All-Pros depart from Western New York, the Pittsburgh Steelers stand to benefit from the challenging decisions made by their AFC rivals.
Among the cap casualties resulting from the Bills’ cost-cutting measures is safety Jordan Poyer. As the Steelers strive to construct a roster capable of contending for the Super Bowl, Poyer could play a pivotal role in addressing their needs.
The prospect of bringing Poyer to Pittsburgh aligns seamlessly with their goals. His potential acquisition offers a cost-effective solution relative to his value, adds durability to a diminishing secondary, and addresses one of the few gaps in an otherwise formidable defense.
The Steelers are grappling with uncertainties at the safety position, a vulnerability exposed by a multitude of injuries during the 2023 season. Beyond the standout Minkah Fitzpatrick, the depth at safety is notably thin. Damontae Kazee, while affordable and occasionally dynamic, may be better suited as a situational reserve. Patrick Petersen, while an option, is not a natural safety, and a position change may only serve to extend his career. Keanu Neal, with a $2.7 million cap hit, could potentially become a cap casualty. Additionally, Miles Killebrew is set to become a free agent soon, leaving minimal experience on the depth chart.
The significance of adding Poyer extends beyond merely plugging a hole; it represents a strategic move for the Steelers, providing a multi-year partner for Fitzpatrick.
Poyer boasts a remarkable track record of reliability, featuring in at least 15 games in six of his seven seasons with the Bills. He consistently recorded 90 or more tackles, with four seasons exceeding 100 tackles in Buffalo. Known for his tackling prowess and historical stinginess in coverage, Poyer’s performance took a slight dip in 2023. Despite aging, he continues to contribute with significant plays, showcasing a knack for creating turnovers, including an impressive 48 forced fumbles during his tenure with the Bills.
