The Steelers were prepared to use Zach Banner as a starter at multiple points, but that path did not pan out for the veteran tackle. Pittsburgh released Banner on Wednesday, wrapping his four-year run with the franchise.
This move will create a notable amount of cap space for the Steelers, who are opening up $5MM because of Banner’s exit. The Steelers gave the former Colts fourth-round pick a two-year, $9.25MM deal in 2021.
Pittsburgh paid Banner despite the 2020 right tackle starter suffering a torn ACL in Week 1 of that season. Banner played in seven games last season but battled more injury trouble and did not regain his starting job. The Steelers were unable to regroup up front in 2021, but as of now, Banner is not in line to be part of their 2022 solution. Overall, the 6-foot-8 blocker played 22 games as a Steeler, making two starts.
The team re-signed its 2021 right tackle starter, Chukwuma Okorafor, to a deal averaging nearly eight figures annually. Pittsburgh also signed interior linemen James Daniels and Mason Cole this week.
Interesting move but if you’re signing guys like Jack, someone is gonna get cut. Just maybe not at the position you need the most help.
I don’t think they’re done with O-linemen yet, either in free agency or the draft. This guy just couldn’t stay healthy
They’ll definitely draft an O-Lineman in the first two rounds. If Willis doesn’t fall to them, I could see them going after the best one available at #20. Followed by a CB in Rd 2.
Great guy, just couldn’t stay healthy. Hopefully he does well with his next team, he’s got the ability.
You wouldn’t like him when he’s mad…..
Fun fact, he’s Lincoln Kennedy’s son
Thus ends his career on the FAN as a weekly player correspondent.
And begins The Poni, Mueller and Banner Show.
And then he’ll get hurt.