Steelers Morning Huddle 3/13/14
Aug 10, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Al Woods (65) reacts after registering a sack against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. The New York Giants won 18-13. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Free Agency was officially upon as of Tuesday, and so far that hasn’t been a lack news to follow. Here are some of the major happenings in Steelers Nation.
Al Woods Leaves For Tennessee
It became official yesterday around 7 pm that veteran defensive lineman Al Woods would be leaving Pittsburgh in favor of the Tennessee Titans. This was disappointing news to those who follow the team closely. Woods was supposed to be the fourth defensive lineman who could play all three positions along the line. Now that he has left, the Steelers need to search for a new fourth man along the line. Woods’ name wasn’t heralded around the league, but he was one of the most solid players on the Steelers roster. Even if he didn’t make game breaking plays, he rarely made a noticeable mistake. When a backup defensive lineman doesn’t get much publicity, it could be considered just as much a good as it can bad. Woods will provide a versatile presence along the Titans defensive line and should command a decent amount of playing time. He will be especially valuable if the Titans scheme some 3-4 looks into their defense. He will be missed in the Steel City.
Jonathan Dwyer Departs for Arizona
Many sources from around the league reported last night that Jonathan Dwyer signed with the Arizona Cardinals. When I first heard the news I can honestly say I wasn’t that surprised. Although the Cardinals do have some viable options on their roster besides Andre Ellington, Dwyer is better than all of them. Not to mention the fact that he is now reunited with former Steelers offensive coordinator Bruce Arians. Andre Ellington is more of a speed back who can also produce when asked to be a receiver out of the backfield and Dwyer is molded as pound it down your throat until you give up guy. Ellington and Dwyer will complement each other well as a nice one-two punch. Now that Dwyer has left Pittsburgh, look for LaRod Stephens-Howling to be back next season. Also look for the Steelers’ brass to target a power back in the draft, if they do indeed sign Stephens-Howling, that can fill the Jonathan Dwyer role.
What Do You think Steelers Nation? What does Woods and Dwyer leaving mean for the Steelers? Who will they be replaced by? Feel free to chime in in the comments section below.