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Steelers Dump Cortez Allen

By Rich Donahue

Sep 28, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cortez Allen (28) intercepts a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Heinz Field. The Buccaneers won the game, 27-24. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 28, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cortez Allen (28) intercepts a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Heinz Field. The Buccaneers won the game, 27-24. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Pittsburgh Steelers have released cornerback Cortez Allen.

The Steelers finally gave in Friday afternoon.  After being asked to take a pay cut last month, Cortez Allen was released from the team today.  This comes 2 years after Allen signed a four year $24 million extension.

Before signing his extension, it looked as if a bright future was ahead of Allen in Pittsburgh.  He came into his own his third year out of the Citadel.  Allen started 8 games for the Steelers in 2013, recording 44 tackles, 13 pass breakups and 2 picks, one of which was returned for a touchdown.

But Allen disappointed in 2014 and was benched after starting 7 games.  He was then placed on injured reserve with a thumb injury, ending his season.   2015 was even worse for Allen, injuring his knee in the opener at New England.  He would not see the field the rest of the season.

The original notion was Allen would be cut with the post-June 1 designation.  However, it seems as if that is not the case, at least what is initially being reported.

Willie Gay and Ross Cockrell are the most experienced cornerbacks on the roster as of now.  Last year’s 4th round pick Doran Grant saw a few snaps in 2015 while 2nd round pick Senquez Golson missed the entire year with an injury.  Let’s hope both of these guys are major contributors in the Steelers secondary this seaspm.

The question now remains whether the team will select a cornerback in the first round.  With Allen now gone, it would seem like a sure thing.  But when it comes to the Steelers drafting style, nothing is a given.  For the past three seasons, fans have been demanding the team draft a cornerback in round one.  To the dismay of many, the Steelers have taken a linebacker first each year since 2013.  The club is also not afraid to take the best player off the board regardless of position.

Next: Steelers Prospect Watch: Mike Caputo

This year, I do believe the Steelers will take a corner in the first round.  Who that cornerback will be remains to be seen, it all depends on how the dominos fall on April 28.

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