NFL rumors: Steelers could re-sign Fernando Velasco

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Sep 22, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers center Fernando Velasco (61) at the line of scrimmage against the Chicago Bears defense during the third quarter at Heinz Field. The Bears won 40-23. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 22, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers center Fernando Velasco (61) at the line of scrimmage against the Chicago Bears defense during the third quarter at Heinz Field. The Bears won 40-23. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

After the Pittsburgh Steelers watched starting center Maurkice Pouncey go down to a torn ACL early in the 2013 season opener, they turned to Fernando Velasco to fill in. Velasco started 11 games before suffering an Achilles injury that ended his season, but he had a strong performance when healthy.

Because of his injury, Velasco has received very little interest on the open market, which may be leading to a Pittsburgh reunion.

According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, there is still a chance that the Steelers could decide to re-sign Velasco.

He has certainly earned another opportunity after finishing last season as a top 25 center, according to Pro Football Focus, so having him back on the team would provide the Steelers more depth once he is healthy.

On top of playing center, Velasco can play guard, so his versatility is a valuable tool.