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The USA Today is reporting the Steelers are "on the verge" of releasing outside linebacker James Harrison, just a few hours in wake of the unofficial open of 2013 free agency. Harrison and the Steelers have been working to find a middle ground on a restructred contract that would keep the former Defensive Player of the Year in Pittsburgh for the 2013 season.
Harrison is still considered a contributor, having led the Steelers in sacks in 2013, but his age and cap number were clearly difficult for the Steelers to manage. If it's the end for Harrison, it'll be a tough loss. He replaced Joey Porter, who was, at that point, arguably the best 3-4 OLB the Steelers have had. Harrison's 2008 season left any and all thoughts of Porter behind, having been named Defensive Player of the Year and earned an All Pro first team selection.
The Steelers would shave some money off the cap by releasing him, but it would thrust Jason Worilds into the starting lineup, and leave a position once thought to be the best in the league surrounded with question marks.