Steelers sign free agent Mathis

[The Governor]

By Ed Bouchette, Post-Gazette Sports Writer

The Steelers today chose Terance Mathis to be the veteran receiver who will join their group of young wide receivers in training camp.

Mathis, selected over Herman Moore, agreed to a one-year deal that will pay him $750,000, including a $25,000 signing bonus. Under new NFL rules, he will count only $475,000 against the team's salary cap this season.

Coach Bill Cowher and director of football operations Kevin Colbert chose Mathis because they have a need at the slot position and he fills it better than the 6-foot-4 Moore. Mathis, 35, also has been healthy. Moore's play has been limited the past three seasons because of injuries.

"The thing is, this is the place I wanted to be at since the AFC championship game," Mathis said on Thursday. "My wife and I and my family prayed about it, we've been patient and God delivered. He put me in the place. I knew the need they were looking for, and I said I would be a good addition to the team. As I said, I'm not here to take anyone's job just to help them."

Mathis has been in the league for 12 seasons, the last eight with the Atlanta. He led the Falcons in receiving last year.

[Big Quasimodo]

If the Steelers are lucky, he won't be on the field much. Plaxico and Hines are a great downfield/possession combo. Still, a veteran presence is always nice. Can't hurt!

Edit: OK, now, reading the article, and seeing Cowher say that Mathis is slated for the slot, I kinda wonder why Hines wouldn't play slot? He only averaged about 10 yds a catch last year, and he is physical enough to take the pounding the center of the field usually gets. I would put Mathis at WR opposite Burress, and Ward in the slot. But what the hell do I know? :D

[Jeremy517]

I think this is the last nail in the Troy Edwards coffin. Look for him to be cut some time soon (unless he already was and I missed it).

[The Governor]

Originally posted by juiio
I think this is the last nail in the Troy Edwards coffin. Look for him to be cut some time soon (unless he already was and I missed it).
Not cut yet, but the way Cowher was talking he is going to make Mahtis or Herman Moore come in an work for the spot during training camp. Maybe this will wake up Troy Edwards who was a #1 pick and has never lived up to his potential. First item at hand for Edwards, learn not to run out of bounds and up the sideline when covering a punt. Ughhh :)

[monkeyboy]

Originally posted by The Governor
Not cut yet, but the way Cowher was talking he is going to make Mahtis or Herman Moore come in an work for the spot during training camp.

i also heard that herman moore was visiting the steelers. if he could get healthy again, i'd love to have moore on the team.