The Pittsburgh Steelers know how to develop offensive linemen, especially since Mike Munchak came on board, and the proof is in how players are evaluated when they leave. For the most recent example, look no further than offensive tackle Chris Hubbard.
Hubbard, who filled in for Marcus Gilbert throughout several injuries and a suspension, played well enough everyone who follows the Steelers knew the team wouldn’t be able to bring him back as he became an unrestricted free agent — and they were right.
The day before the ‘official’ NFL Free Agency began, the Cleveland Browns have signed Hubbard to a huge deal.
The #Browns are expected to sign OT Chris Hubbard to a 5-year deal worth $37.5M with nearly $18M guaranteed, source said. More help up front for Cleveland.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 13, 2018
With Joe Thomas’ future still up in the air, the Browns signed a player who can play both right and left tackle, and has starting experience. Exactly what you want with a free agent pick up, but the most surprising aspect of Hubbard’s departure was the deal itself.
The Browns signed Hubbard to a 5-year contract with $18 million guaranteed $37.5 million overall. Plenty more than the Steelers could ever afford, and I believe most Steelers fans appreciate what Hubbard brought to the team, and wish him nothing but the best in the future — just not necessarily in the two weeks the Steelers play the Browns every season.
Stay tuned to BTSC for the latest on their free agent rumors, departures and signings.