The Kansas City Chiefs slapped the franchise tag on cornerback L’Jarius Sneed on February 28, according to Jordan Schultz of Bleacher Report. However, this does not imply Sneed is no longer available for a team like the Pittsburgh Steelers.
On February 27, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the Chiefs intend to move Sneed on the franchise tag if they cannot reach a long-term deal arrangement with the cornerback. On March 2, Steelers Now’s Nick Farabaugh claimed that the Steelers “have expressed interest” in signing the Chiefs cornerback if he becomes available.
“Sneed’s franchise tag contract will be a one-year deal for $19.8 million, but he is seeking a long-term contract,” he wrote. “The Steelers could negotiate an extension with Sneed after trading for him, or he could play under the tag in 2024 before becoming a free agent in 2025.
Pittsburgh showed interest in Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson at the trade deadline. So, they’ve been looking into obtaining a talented cornerback since the middle of the season.”
He has never made the All-Pro or Pro Bowl. But Sneed is one of the NFL’s fastest-rising cornerbacks.
He was the Chiefs’ top cornerback the previous two seasons, when the team won back-to-back Super Bowls. In 2023, he recorded 78 total tackles, including 5 for loss, 14 pass defenses, and 2 interceptions.
This summer, Spotrac predicted Sneed’s deal value to be around $65.3 million over four years. Sneed would receive an average annual salary of $16.3 million under this arrangement.
Why the Steelers Could Pursue a Trade for L’Jarius Sneed
The Steelers’ interest in Sneed isn’t surprising. NFL commentators, including Pro Football Focus analysts, have linked Pittsburgh to the 27-year-old cornerback this offseason because he would be a clear upgrade.
“Sneed could stand to cut down on penalties, but his aggressive nature would be welcome on many teams, and his inside-outside versatility is a nice benefit, as well,” according to the PFF staff.
