:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60861751/usa_today_10417010.0.jpg)
After spending his first six seasons in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers, it was something of a surprise to see safety Robert Golden released by the team back in March. Signed by the Kansas City Chiefs during free agency, Golden was one of four defensive back the Steelers released this offseason and the first of that group to find a new home.
However, in light of an announcement Golden made via social media on Wednesday, it would appear it might not have been the right home for him after all.
I am no longer a Kansas City Chief. Although I appreciate the opportunity that organization gave me, the fit was not ideal for me. Look forward to being in a better situation here in the near future!
— Robert Golden (@R0bG0lden) August 16, 2018
Life is too short to not be happy... so I made a decision for betterment... However, I am thankful for the opportunity.
— Robert Golden (@R0bG0lden) August 16, 2018
Blessings!
His tweet clearly suggests he was not enjoying life with the Chiefs and a post from NFL reporter Ian Rapoport later in the day confirmed it was the player’s decision to leave, rather than the team wanting to get rid of him. Rapoport also provide a little more detail about why the former Steelers’ safety wanted out of Kansas City, as per Golden’s agent.
The #Chiefs have released veteran S Robert Golden at his request, his agent Jordan Woy told me, saying Golden didn’t feel like he was getting the opportunity to contribute the way he wanted to. “He’s hoping to catch on with another team soon,” Woy said.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 16, 2018
Given Golden was only able to secure a 1-year deal with the Chiefs that paid him the veteran minimum and did not include a signing bonus, it seems unlikely he will find a host of suitors now he is a free agent once again.
Steeler Nation should not discount a reunion with the Steelers given his past performance as the special teams captain in Pittsburgh, but considering the number of young safeties on the roster that includes two recent draft picks, it is doubtful they would be interested at the moment. Should he remain on the open market after the season has begun, Golden could be a logical signing should the Steelers lose a safety to injury.