It took a few days, but as expected, the Pittsburgh Steelers have re-signed cornerback Ross Cockrell to a one-year deal.
Cockrell, who originally signed by the Steelers on September 5, 2015 after being released by Buffalo Bills, was scheduled to be an exclusive rights free agent during the offseason. His new one-year deal is for the minimum and he’ll be a restricted free agent after the 2016 season is over.
Including the playoffs, Cockrell played in 729 snaps this season, recording 44 tackles, two interceptions, and a forced fumble. He played almost exclusively in nickel packages working pretty evenly as the left and right corner. He’s shown above average coverage skills though was quiet against the run and is not the physical corner the Steelers tend to seek.
The Duke product is now expected to compete for a starting outside spot in the Steelers secondary during training camp.
Cockrell is now the third player that was scheduled to be an exclusive right free agent that has been re-signed as fullback Roosevelt Nix and guard Chris Hubbard both signed one-year extensions earlier in the week.
