3 Steelers who won’t be back next season after Chiefs loss

Joe Haden

Joe Haden is on the verge of 33 years old and entering free agency in 2022.

There’s a chance Haden and the Steelers could come to an agreement that would bring him back for another season. However, the lack of a contract extension getting done before now doesn’t exactly bode well for Haden’s return.

Adam Schefter reported in September that Haden is planning to test the free agent market. At his age, he’ll be looking for a lucrative final contract. Pittsburgh will have to decide if that investment in an aging cornerback will be worth the money.

There will be plenty of areas to spend on in free agency, from the offensive line to quarterback. In terms of the long-term health of the franchise, it just might not work out.

Haden came to Pittsburgh in 2017 after a strong start to his career in Cleveland, including two Pro Bowl appearances. In five seasons with the Steelers he has tallied 10 interceptions, 54 pass breakups and 244 tackles. The 2021 season was the first with the team that he failed to grab a pick.