2007 Results: 10-7 AFC North Champions, Lost in the Wildcard Playoff against Jacksonville
\n2008 Projected Cap Status: $3,260,770 over the cap <\/p>\n
2007 Season Recap<\/u>: <\/p>\n
The Steelers had a good yet unfulfilled 2007, winning the division, making the playoffs, then losing to Jacksonville in the first round. Ben Roethlisberger rebounded from 2006 with a good year \u2013 32 Tds, 11 Ints, and a rating of 104.1. Still they only ranked 22nd in passing offense but ranked 3rd in rushing offense. Their defense was outstanding, finishing the year ranked #1. This was a good first year for Mike Tomlin whose team almost overcame an 18-point lead to beat Jacksonville (31-29) on their home field. <\/p>\n
Team Needs<\/u>: <\/p>\n
1. Offensive Line<\/i> \u2013 With the loss of Pro Bowler Alan Faneca the line, which has already been slipping, took another hit. This line is getting thin and could use some youth to build it back up. <\/p>\n
2. Wide Receiver<\/i> \u2013 Double duty could be what they are looking for at this position; someone who can play WR and return punts\/kickoffs. Hines Ward is 32 so a young tall\/fast replacement in the wings would fit the bill. <\/p>\n
3. Cornerback<\/i> \u2013 Another depth position that could also fill the need of punt\/kickoff return man. <\/p>\n
2008 Draft Picks<\/u>: <\/p>\n
1st Round \u2013 23rd overall
\n2nd Round \u2013 53rd overall
\n3rd Round \u2013 88th overall
\n4th Round \u2013 123rd overall
\n5th Round \u2013 156th overall
\n6th Round \u2013 18th overall
\n7th Round \u2013 221st overall <\/p>\n
Free agency status<\/u>: <\/p>\n
UFA<\/i>:
\nLB Marquis Cooper
\nDE Nick Eason
\nG Alan Faneca (NYJ)
\nLB Clark Haggans (Cardinals)
\nRB Verron Haynes
\nDE Travis Kirschke (signed)
\nFB Dan Kreider
\nQB Brian St. Pierre (Cardinals)
\nOT Max Starks <\/p>\n
RFA<\/i>:
\nOL Trai Essex (signed)
\nG Chris Kemoeatu (signed)
\nOL Greg Warren (signed)
\nWR Nate Washington <\/p>\n
RELEASED<\/i>:
\nDE Andre Frazier (signed)
\nLB Clint Kriewaldt
\nCB Allen Rossum (49r\u2019s)
\nTE Jerame Tuman (Cardinals) <\/p>\n
FREE AGENTS SIGNED<\/i>:
\nLB Keyaron Fox
\nC Justin Hartwig
\nRB Mewelde Moore<\/p>\n
Edit: This blog was archived in May of 2016 from our original articles database.It was originally posted by Scott Peek<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"