The Blitzburgh Report

The Steelers added another running back to the mix today when they signed former Pitt back Kevan Barlow. Barlow played for the New York Jets last season, and before that was with the 49′ers. The Steelers most likely are bringing Barlow in to compete with Najeh Davenport for the Steelers’ “big back” role.

It’s not a bad pick up for the Steelers. The deal is just for one year with little risk if things don’t work out. The signing is not one that will turn heads, but if Barlow gets back to his 2003 form (5.1 yards per carry for 1,024 yards even though he only started 4 games) he could be a solid pick up. Then again, if he continues his 2.8 yards per carry from last season then he might not even make it past training camp.

All in all it leaves solid, but not awe inspiring options behind Willie Parker.

The Steelers have signed former Brown defensive end Nick Eason. ESPN says that this is a typical move for the team:

The Steelers traditionally sign players such as Eason to an NFL minimum-salary contract — $510,000 for a player with Eason’s experience. The 6-foot-3, 305-pound Eason would replace Rodney Bailey, who signed last week with the Arizona Cardinals.

Eason seems to be a body for training camp. He was a fourth round pick by the Browns in 2003 and was waived by the team the next year. He spent a brief stint with the Broncos’ practice squad before returning to the Browns. Over his career, Eason has 44 tackles, two sacks, and one forced fumble in 30 NFL games.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette sports editor Jerry Micco said in a chat Wednesday that from what he is hearing, Alan Faneca will not be with the Steelers after this season:

mxpxbv82: I’ll break the Steeler-less streak…we haven’t heard much more on the Alan Faneca front. Still think he’s here beyond 2007?

Jerry Micco: I’m hearing he will not be here beyond 2007, but there’s still time for the Steelers to work that out. And some of it will depend on other players, too. But from what I’m hearing, Faneca is gone after this season.

While most people have been talking about this topic lately, we feel this is worth mentioning because Jerry Micco’s word has a bit more weight and credibility then your average Joe on a message board. With all the talk lately, it certainly makes sense. Faneca still has some good years left, but with lineman contracts skyrocketing in recent years, he is going to command a ton of cash. We just don’t see the Steelers being able to afford him. As we all know, the Steelers don’t break the bank and jeopardize the team for any one player, no matter how good.