The Pittsburgh Steelers have re-signed another one of their unrestricted free agents as wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey has agreed to a one-year contract.
Heyward-Bey, a former first-round draft pick of the Oakland Raiders, signed with the Steelers last year as an unrestricted free agent, He caught just three passes for 33 yards during the 2014 season in 16 games played. He also played quite extensively on special teams on his way to recording three total tackles.
The Steelers obviously believe that Heyward-Bey can function again as the team’s fourth or fifth wide receiver in 2015. In addition to that, the Maryland product has proven that he can be an asset on special teams over the course of the last few seasons.
Heyward-Bey is also a tremendous run blocker and while his hands are still suspect at times, he can still function in the offense in case injuries strike.
In six NFL seasons, Heyward-Bey has registered 172 receptions for 2,413 yards and 12 touchdowns.
“It’s great to be back,” said Heyward-Bey to Teresa Varley of Steelers.com. “I just wanted to stay here and be a part of a great organization and play for a great coach. That is what Coach (Mike) Tomlin is. I wanted to be back. For most guys free agency is tough, but I knew what I wanted. I knew the timing would take a little bit. For some guys it’s tough dealing with the unknown, but I knew what I wanted.”
“I wanted to come back here. They have been honest with me from Day 1. In this business of the NFL, for them to be very honest with me, what they expect from me and me telling them what I expect. It’s an honest partnership.”
