Last year, the Detroit Lions signed former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton through NFL free agency. Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine speculated that the Lions could recruit another former Steelers defensive back in free agency – Patrick Peterson.
Ballentine mentioned the Lions as a probable destination for the three-time All-Pro cornerback.
“The Pittsburgh Steelers cut the three-time All-Pro in a cost-cutting move. However, he appeared in all 17 games for the Steelers last season, starting 16 and allowing only 7.7 yards per target,” noted Ballentine.
“He also added an interesting chapter to his career by moonlighting as a safety near the end of the season.
“Peterson showed enough that he should get a shot at corner, but the possibility of playing safety makes him a safer signing.”
After his rookie contract expired, Peterson agreed to a 5-year, $70 million extension with the Arizona Cardinals. In his first five seasons, he was named first-team All-Pro three times.
Peterson also made eight consecutive Pro Bowl appearances, beginning with his first season in 2011.
Peterson has spent the past three seasons with the Minnesota Vikings and the Pittsburgh Steelers. In 17 regular-season games last year in Pittsburgh, he recorded 42 total tackles, 11 pass defenses, and two interceptions.
