Plaxico Burress: The Risky Receiver

For two years in a row now Steelers fans have heard rumors of Plaxico Burress returning. Let’s examine the pros and cons realistically.

After Burress served his prison sentence the Jets decided to take a chance on him. It worked out ok for them to some extent, but he was a temporary means to an end. Burress finished last season with 45 receptions and eight touchdowns. He has since been replaced in New York by rookie Stephen Hill.

Yes, Burress can help this team immediately, but primarily only from the 20-yard line in. Everyone knows Burress has the size that all teams seek in a red zone receiver and Big Ben would love the big target for the fade ball.

Beyond that, why would you want Burress on the roster?

His off the field distractions have obviously proven to be a problem.

Signing him may limit Emmanuel Sanders playing time. Sanders, at one point, when healthy was ahead of Antonio Brown on the depth chart. The two battled each week for the last spot on the roster their rookie season.

Sanders said that he currently feels the best he has ever felt. Now is not the time to limit his action.

Did I forget to mention that Burress wants a big contract?

New York paid him $3 million a year ago. Burress said he felt his performance spoke for itself and is surprised that no team has signed him yet. A mediocre statistical season entitles him to that, right?

Money seems to be the common theme for Pittsburgh this offseason too. Signing Burress would put any chance of Mike Wallace coming back out of the question.

The player is simply not worth the risk.

Pittsburgh will do what they always do, work with what they have.