The following players may find themselves playing in different uniforms next year, or in the case of Tommy Maddox, not playing at all.
- Duce Staley is owed more than $3 million next year plus a roster bonus. Rumor has it that the Steelers aren't willing to fork over that kind of money to a player who has not managed to stay consistently healthy for the past several years. With Willie Parker emerging as a full-time back this year, the Steelers might opt to spend less on a capable third down back.
- Tommy Maddox is only owed $1.1 million in 2006, but even that sum is too high. Maddox single-handedly gave the Steelers Nation a heart attack this season with his erratic--scratch that--god awful play. At age 34, he's simply done. Pittsburgh will certainly find a more suitable upgrade at the backup QB slot.
4) Willie Williams. Despite being a great locker room-guy, Willaims won't find himself a Steeler in 2006. At age 34, Williams lacks the speed and explosiveness required to play DB in the NFL. Plus, the Steelers have ample young talent at the position.