You are probably going to hear chatter about the potential of the Pittsburgh Steelers making a run at free-agent cornerback Kevin Johnson. The Houston Texans released Johnson as a way to save around $9 million on the salary cap. It might make sense on the surface to bring Johnson in and see if a new address will turn things around but I’d caution the Steelers to look at history and pass.
The last three seasons have been injury riddled for Johnson. 2018 was particularly bad for him as he only appeared in one game and was lost for the rest of the season. That on its own isn’t the worst thing but considering Johnson was lost due to multiple concussions it should raise serious red flags for the Steelers.
We all remember the failed experiment that was Ladarius Green. The signing of the tight end looked like genius at the time. But having come off a season where he had dealt with concussions it was a risk that never paid off. Green only appeared in six games in 2016 for the Steelers but was never able to get healthy. He hasn’t played in the league in the last two seasons.
There are several interesting free-agent cornerbacks for the Steelers to consider. And while some of them might be a little pricey, the risk/reward of getting Johnson on the cheap, unless it’s a one-year prove it type of contract just doesn’t feel worth it.
