Pittsburgh Steelers: Predictions for key contracts that expire in 2021

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Pittsburgh Steelers (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /

Joe Haden, CB

With his promotion to the Pro Bowl in place of Marcus Peters, Haden became the first Steelers cornerback selected to the game since Rod Woodson in 1996. In 2019, Haden intercepted five passes and recorded 17 passes defensed. He also forced a fumble, recovered one loose ball, and amassed 65 tackles.

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Haden joined the Steelers in 2017, less than a week after being cut by the Cleveland Browns. He made two Pro Bowls with Cleveland, and the Associated Press selected him as a Second Team All-Pro in 2013. While Haden never became a superstar, his second act is vindicating for the veteran cornerback.

This upcoming season marks the second year of a two-year, $22.4 million contract extension Haden signed with Pittsburgh before the 2019 season. While the deal works for Pittsburgh this time around, the team may hesitate to give Haden another extension.

Haden is 30 years old and just completed the second 16-game season of his career. His rookie season was the only other year where Haden played in every game. Cornerbacks, especially those with injury histories, have a habit of falling off in their early 30s.

For instance, Aqib Talib‘s fifth and final Pro Bowl came in his age-31 season. Ty Law‘s career went the same way. Darrelle Revis‘ final selection came in his age-30 season. It’s not that those corners were entirely ineffective past that mark, but they were noticeably more limited.

The Steelers may sign Haden to a short-term contract in 2021, but, assuming his career follows the usual trend, he will need to take a pay cut. Then again, the team could roll with Mike Hilton and Steven Nelson and let Haden walk.

Predicted action – not re-signed

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