3 Most Likely Free Agent Destinations for Steven Nelson

The business of football sent Steven Nelson packing. The Pittsburgh Steelers saved more than $14 million by releasing their best boundary cornerback. The 28-year-old won't be out of work much longer, as more than 10 teams have reportedly inquired about his services.

Nelson was one of the top-graded cornerbacks in 2019, earning a Pro Football Focus grade of 80.5. He fell off last season, but his Positive Play Rate and coverage ability remained strong.

Here are three free agent landing spots for Steven Nelson.

Steven Nelson Free Agent Rumors

3. Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals don't have a primary need at cornerback, but signing a talented player from a division rival would clearly bolster its back end. The Bengals did lose CB William Jackson, but also signed former Steelers CB Mike Hilton. Nelson could join his former teammate and be a boost to the Queen City. His addition would potentially move the Bengals' pass defense into the top 10 heading into 2021.

2. Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears made CB Kyle Fuller a salary cap casualty last month. The Bears could select a cornerback early in the NFL Draft, but why not secure the position by signing an experienced option like Nelson? He could start alongside second-year CB Jaylon Johnson and give the Bears the secondary talent needed to battle the All-Pro receivers in the NFC North and across the league.

1. San Francisco 49ers

Nelson hails from the West Coast, starring at Oregon State and battling the likes of Cal and Stanford before being a third-round pick. The 49ers have a need at cornerback and have surely inquired about Nelson. With Ahkello Witherspoon leaving for Seattle and Richard Sherman not likely to return, Nelson would be a strong addition for this already Super Bowl-worthy defense.

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