It surprised many to see the likes of Sean Spence, Antwon Blake, and Terence Garvin sign before Brandon Boykin. But now, Boykin may be close to finding a new home.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports Boykin has a Monday visit set with the Carolina Panthers.
Boykin’s market has been surprisingly cold, despite being one of the top cornerbacks left on the market for the last week. His only known previous interest came from the Atlanta Falcons, though that spark quickly went out. Boykin could wind up being the team’s slot corner – like he was in Pittsburgh – with Josh Norman and Bene Benwikere on the outside.
Boykin’s time in Pittsburgh, as it has been recounted dozens of time on this site alone, was a curious one to most fans. Traded for a 5th round pick during training camp, Boykin did not see consistent playing time until close to the last month of the season, where he took over as the team’s nickel corner, limiting Ross Cockrell and Antwon Blake’s playing time. He finished his Steelers’ tenure with 21 tackles, an interception, a forced fumble, and a sack.
His market value appears to be less than originally thought and could come in around the $3.5-$4 million range. Patrick Robinson was the last notable corner to sign, joining the Indianapolis Colts, for $4.67 million average yearly value.
Mike Tomlin basically encouraged Boykin to test free agency in their exit meeting and though he reportedly left the door open for a return, those chances were always slim. While Boykin said the right things and did not get publicly upset by his lack of playing time, 2015 had to have been the most frustrating year of his career.
He’s always wanted to be viewed as more than a slot corner though the Eagles, Steelers, and possibly the Panthers have all profiled him as such.
We’ll update if and when he signs on Monday.
