It’s not every day that a former first-round pick becomes available in the NFL. That could happen in the next week, as teams across the league must trim their 90-man rosters down to 53 players by 4 p.m. EST on August 27. Every team has its roster questions as they must decide who to keep and who to let go.
At this time of year, transfers are always an option. Some clubs are looking to get some value for a player they might otherwise have released. We’ll see what happens in the transfer market, but we expect the Steelers to remain active. They’re looking to upgrade certain positions before the regular season begins.
According to Ari Meirov, the Vikings could be ready to move on from Lewis Cine. In a recent video, he said, “Minnesota is well-positioned at the safety position without him. Could he be a player they’re willing to trade?” He mentioned this as a transfer possibility rather than an outright departure, but those who cover the Vikings believe he still has an uphill battle ahead of him to make the team.
Cine has battled injuries and struggled to get playing time since being selected as the top pick by the Vikings a few years ago. He has started to play better since the start of the preseason schedule. If this safety becomes available in the next week, either through a trade or on the waivers list, the Steelers should express interest in him.
Surprise cuts always happen this time of year, and Cine could be next. As Mike Tomlin likes to say, availability is the best skill. Cine was unable to remain available during his short time with the Vikings. Many who cover Minnesota football struggle to find a place for him in many of their roster projections.
Coming out of Georgia, many were excited about what he could offer an NFL defense. He had the speed and power to take on any athlete. He was an inexperienced player coming out of college and seemingly still needed development. That has slowed down, but the Steelers love former first-round picks they can turn into projects.
If Pittsburgh were willing to acquire Cine either in a trade or release, they would have to part with another player. Damontae Kazee could be an outsider despite his experience. Cine is much younger and someone who could offer higher potential. Unless the Black and Gold keep five at that position, it’s unlikely anyone would be safe in the safety room.
Cine is a free safety by trade, but has shown the ability to play in different areas of the defensive backfield. He has played in certain packages in the slot and as a strong safety. Pittsburgh will be happy to see that, as they need options at those spots. He hasn’t shown anything on special teams yet, but his power could make him a quality player there if the team desires.
Expect the Steelers to remain actively involved in transfer talks and be on the waiver list when the newsroom is informed of roster cuts. They could use some help at certain positions as the regular season approaches. Cine would be a good choice to develop as a young safety who could benefit from a change of scenery.
