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Hindsight is always 20/20, and part of determining which factors came into play during a successful season often comes down to examining the "glue" players, or the depth players who contributed on a limited basis. Of course, the Steelers offense enjoyed a historically good 2014 while the defense was seen as a detriment more than anything, but several players were able to step up and contribute in lieu of injuries to the regulars.
Arthur Moats, for example, enjoyed somewhat of a breakout campaign in 2014, totaling four sacks and two forced fumbles while starting nine games; which, admittedly, is probably nine more games than most would've predicted Moats would start.
Either way, the former Buffalo Bills sixth-round pick played well in his only season in Pittsburgh after signing a one-year deal last offseason. So well, in fact, the team would be wise to retain his services, especially since incumbent Jason Worilds appears to be on his way out of Pittsburgh while James Harrison's future with the team will be determined at a later time. Fortunately, Moats wants to return to Pittsburgh, something he told the team's site last week.
"I would love to get something done sooner rather than later here," said Moats. "I love it here, my family loves it here. I love this organization."
With the turnover at the outside linebacker position forthcoming, Moats will potentially have the opportunity to win a starting job, even if the Steelers spring for an outside linebacker with a high draft pick or use some newly-created cap space to acquire one in free agency. At the very least Moats can provide depth, his price tag will likely make him a bargin and the Steelers love young, experienced players; two attributes Moats possesses.
Although outside linebacker is possibly the weakest position on the team heading into the meat of the offseason, Pittsburgh could make strides by securing a proven, talented commodity that has his heart set on a return to a team he loves.