Mike Mitchell looks to be the guy

[Dwinsgames]

Dale Lolley ‏@dlolleyor (https://twitter.com/dlolleyor) 1m (https://twitter.com/dlolleyor/status/443513719415640065) Reports surfacing that Caronlina S Mike Mitchell will sign with #Steelers (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Steelers&src=hash). Was on my players to watch list.

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David Todd ‏@DavidMTodd (https://twitter.com/DavidMTodd) 5m (https://twitter.com/DavidMTodd/status/443513410765221890) A shoe drops. “@SheilKapadia (https://twitter.com/SheilKapadia): Potential Eagles target Mike Mitchell will sign with the Steelers, per @BradBiggs (https://twitter.com/BradBiggs) .”

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Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter (https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter) 40s (https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/443514778049589248) Steelers are signing former Panthers S Mike Mitchell, per sources.

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https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bieu_lOCQAAuZZk.jpg

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Curt Popejoy ‏@NFLdraftboard (https://twitter.com/NFLdraftboard) 57s (https://twitter.com/NFLdraftboard/status/443516378054942720) Mike Mitchell a solid signing for the Steelers.

NFL Draft Diamonds ‏@DraftDiamonds (https://twitter.com/DraftDiamonds) 44s (https://twitter.com/DraftDiamonds/status/443516553900740608)
Steelers land a very solid safety in Mike Mitchell http://wp.me/p3HUdq-4Ch (http://t.co/JiTzdtzdpM)

[Steelerette]

I'm not up to snuff on this guy. Should I be celebrating? He looks promising, even if he's a little bit of a late bloomer.

Have we got the next Ryan Clark here? Mitchell and Sharknado for the next several seasons?

[Dwinsgames]

I think Steeler fans will be very happy with this signing , solid player who can run and make plays on the football

He had 4 int. last year. QB rating for passes thrown into his coverage was 50.6. Clark's was 101.4. so HUGE upgrade

[salamander]

Sounds good to me.

[Steelerette]

1st: Mitchell - Polamalu
2nd: Golden - Thomas

I'm pretty good with this. We just signed Will Allen to a one year deal last week. Is he still necessary? At this juncture I'd rather have a young guy developing if we carry a 5th.

[GBMelBlount]

Sounds good.

Any news on the contract?

http://static.someecards.com/someecards/usercards/MjAxMy03MGRkZmFjOTBjNDBiZjBi.png

[Dwinsgames]

Sounds good.

Any news on the contract?

http://static.someecards.com/someecards/usercards/MjAxMy03MGRkZmFjOTBjNDBiZjBi.png

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter (https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter) 36s (https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/443522653190897664) Steelers gave former Panthers S Mike Mitchell a five-year, $25 million deal, per source.

[SteelerFanInStl]

OK, looks like we're taking safety off of the draft list.

I like the signing but I'd be happier with a CB.

[Dwinsgames]

he does miss some tackles , but is also a big hitter

[stillers4me]

Sad to see Ryan Clark go. There's a player who nearly died......and came back as good as ever. Thanks for the hard hits and memories, Ryan. Best of luck to you.

Whelp. That's 2 of my jerseys retired in one day.

[GBMelBlount]

Apparently he ranked top 20 in pass coverage last year.

[Steelerette]

http://i.minus.com/iK7rhxmtovRPr.gif

[stillers4me]

443514022248185856

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443514079924088832



Sounds like a classy young man.

[Dwinsgames]

Dale Lolley ‏@dlolleyor (https://twitter.com/dlolleyor) 8s (https://twitter.com/dlolleyor/status/443529259483934720) Mike Mitchell ran a 4.39 40 at his pro day in 2009. The #Steelers (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Steelers&src=hash) wanted to add some speed/playmaking ability in the secondary

[LLT]

I'm not up to snuff on this guy. Should I be celebrating? He looks promising, even if he's a little bit of a late bloomer.

Have we got the next Ryan Clark here? Mitchell and Sharknado for the next several seasons?

Runs an official 4.45 (I also saw the 4.39 forty and have to say that would be nice) ...but whiffs on tackles too often. Needs to work on tackling technique but could be a sign that the Steelers are going to put an emphasis on the pass rush so that the DB's can get back to pass defense. I'm not saying that he cant play the run...just needs some SERIOUS work on technigue.

[Dwinsgames]

Runs an official 4.45 (I also saw the 4.39 forty and have to say that would be nice) ...but whiffs on tackles too often. Needs to work on tackling technique but could be a sign that the Steelers are going to put an emphasis on the pass rush so that the DB's can get back to pass defense. I'm not saying that he cant play the run...just needs some SERIOUS work on technigue.


while he misses some tackles he was still the 3rd leading tackler on his team last year

[Texasteel]

I think it is a very good signing. He had a pretty good year his second year with Oakland then not all that bad his third and forth, then his best year last year. This will allow us to bypass safety in the this years draft. Unless we see someone late that shows a lot of promise.

[Dwinsgames]

real good read on Mitchell here ( penned today ) http://www.steelcityblitz.com/2014/03/11/so-who-is-mike-mitchell/?utm_term=%23steelers+%23steelernation+%23NFL&utm_content=%23steelers+%23steelernation+%23NFL&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

[ALLD]

Clark's time has passed. He was never a great defender, his strength was allowing the receiver to catch the ball and then taking time off his career with a massive hit. I especially liked the Wes Welker and McGahee. Receivers are less likely to try so hard to catch the ball and worry more about the Clark hit and forthcoming falling to the ground.

[st33lersguy]

All I knew about the guy is that he was the 7th round draft prospect that Oakland selected in the 2nd round. Hopefully, he is good

[Psycho Ward 86]

from the sounds of that article, Mitchell is an emotional Rah-rah type leader, and at his finest in coverage. Just what we need.

The tackling statistic is disconcerting, but carnell lake has done such a wonderful job for our 2ndary players and i expect ike will show him how to tackle as well as he did in his prime

[LLT]

while he misses some tackles he was still the 3rd leading tackler on his team last year

Missed 18 tackles last year which is more than anyone else on our roster missed....but again, he is a great pass defender. With Carnell Lake coaching him up...I have no worries.

[Hindes204]

Quoted from my ESPN app


After being fined $7,875 for taunting against the St. Louis Rams, he called out NFL commissioner Roger Goodell for making him a target.

he should fit right in haha

[dislocatedday]

All I knew about the guy is that he was the 7th round draft prospect that Oakland selected in the 2nd round. Hopefully, he is good

I worked with a guy whose son was a freshman safety (Gerald Moore) at Ohio University when Mike Mitchell was a senior there. His son was friends with Mitchell and was mentored by him. When Mitchell got drafted in the 2nd round by Oakland I asked my co-worker about it, and he said that other teams were going to take Mitchell in the 2nd if Oakland did not. In particular, Chicago was prepared to take him when Oakland got there first. So while it appeared to be a surprise pick at the time, I'm guessing other teams coveted him well before the late rounds.

[GBMelBlount]

from the sounds of that article, Mitchell is an emotional Rah-rah type leader, and at his finest in coverage. Just what we need.

The tackling statistic is disconcerting, but carnell lake has done such a wonderful job for our 2ndary players and i expect ike will show him how to tackle as well as he did in his prime

Hopefully Ike won't show him how to catch.

[zulater]

Really good signing and a good sign that the Steelers are done being stagnant in their way of doing things. The Steelers seemed to have forgot in recent years that the right free agent signing can go a long way to making the team better. Kimo Van Olhoffen, James Farrior, James Harting, Ryan Clark, Mewelde Moore all come to mind as players who came right in and made a difference. Just haven't had much of that the last 3 years. Outside of Cotchery it's hard to think of a free agent who's done anything the past 3 seasons.

[Dwinsgames]

I worked with a guy whose son was a freshman safety (Gerald Moore) at Ohio University when Mike Mitchell was a senior there. His son was friends with Mitchell and was mentored by him. When Mitchell got drafted in the 2nd round by Oakland I asked my co-worker about it, and he said that other teams were going to take Mitchell in the 2nd if Oakland did not. In particular, Chicago was prepared to take him when Oakland got there first. So while it appeared to be a surprise pick at the time, I'm guessing other teams coveted him well before the late rounds.


we have seen it a thousand times , guys get taken before draftnicks believe they should be an all the sudden it was a dire reach , where at other ends of the spectrum we see guys every years ranked by those same draft nicks that are slotted for late 2nd early third round that go till round 6 or 7 and are heralded as HUGE steals and they are out of the league in 2 years ...

its not where you get drafted , its what you do with the fact that you got a chance

[86WARD]

I like it...

[Psycho Ward 86]

yeah so this signing excites me a helluva lot more than it worries me. but it still worries me for one reason:

what does this mean about shamarko? That we dont think he'll pan out (after all, mitchell and troy are getting paid starter money for a significant period of time)? That we'll groom shamarko for 2-3 years until troy is pretty much done? Does it mean shamarko will be used much more extensively for the next couple years as a nickel corner like he did in college?

Debate!

[Dwinsgames]

yeah so this signing excites me a helluva lot more than it worries me. but it still worries me for one reason:

what does this mean about shamarko? That we dont think he'll pan out (after all, mitchell and troy are getting paid starter money for a significant period of time)? That we'll groom shamarko for 2-3 years until troy is pretty much done? Does it mean shamarko will be used much more extensively for the next couple years as a nickel corner like he did in college?

Debate!

it could mean exactly that , it could also mean they feel Shamarko is more Troys replacement than Clarks and when we drafted him it looked like Troy was pretty much done ( could not stay on the field ) he had a resurgence to some degree last year at least in the health department but at his age he is no sure thing week to week .... nothing wrong with having good young hungry depth

[Psycho Ward 86]

Mitchell, a former second-round pick out of Ohio, was tremendous with the Panthers last season. In 15 games (14 starts), he tallied 67 combined tackles, four interceptions, four sacks and two forced fumbles for one of the best defenses in the league. With an aggressive, physical style of play, he showcased an ability to deliver punishing hits on opponents.

"That was just me saying hello," he said, via USA Today's Tom Pelissero. "I think next year is when I'm really going to show up."

i like this bastard

[st33lersguy]

yeah so this signing excites me a helluva lot more than it worries me. but it still worries me for one reason:

what does this mean about shamarko? That we dont think he'll pan out (after all, mitchell and troy are getting paid starter money for a significant period of time)? That we'll groom shamarko for 2-3 years until troy is pretty much done? Does it mean shamarko will be used much more extensively for the next couple years as a nickel corner like he did in college?

Debate!

I think Shamarko will play in relief of Troy when Troy suffers his next injury for 3 years before taking over.

[86WARD]

it could mean exactly that , it could also mean they feel Shamarko is more Troys replacement than Clarks and when we drafted him it looked like Troy was pretty much done ( could not stay on the field ) he had a resurgence to some degree last year at least in the health department but at his age he is no sure thing week to week .... nothing wrong with having good young hungry depth

This...

[Psycho Ward 86]

Mitchell can play strong and free safety. He actually switched to FS due to injury last season, so thats good.

http://espn.go.com/blog/carolina-panthers/post/_/id/1242/mitchell-aggressively-becoming-quite-valuable

"He's really stepped up his leadership in the secondary, making the calls, making the checks,'' coach Ron Rivera said. "The interesting thing about him is he's very emphatic about his checks, so if he's wrong we're all wrong and we play them together.''

That's a good thing, because right or wrong everyone is on the same page. And when everybody is pulling in the same direction good things typically happen.

"The thing I love about Mike is he's a physical presence for us, and that's important in terms of the mental, physical toughness of the defense,'' defensive coordinator Sean McDermott said.

Mitchell was a bit too aggressive with his physicality twice during the preseason and once early this season, drawing penalties. But his teammates don't seem to mind.

"I can appreciate it, personally,'' defensive end Greg Hardy said. "I can't speak for anybody else. That's what I'm about. Go hard or go home. He's my type of guy. I love him.''

Mitchell is a prime example of next man up in the NFL. He won the starting strong safety job during the preseason, lost it to Quintin Mikell after missing the first game with a calf injury, and then got a new starting job with Godfrey's injury.

"Mike's got a certain way about him,'' Rivera said. "If we can keep him right at that fine line ... that's who he is and I appreciate that style of football.''

[Shoes]

Goodell is licking his chops.

[LLT]

it could mean exactly that , it could also mean they feel Shamarko is more Troys replacement than Clarks and when we drafted him it looked like Troy was pretty much done ( could not stay on the field ) he had a resurgence to some degree last year at least in the health department but at his age he is no sure thing week to week .... nothing wrong with having good young hungry depth

Exactly....We have a "potential" legitimate starting talent in Shamarko. With Golden and Allen we have above average wave players. Adding Mitchell to the fold shores up that position for a few years.

[st33lersguy]

Exactly....We have a "potential" legitimate starting talent in Shamarko. With Golden and Allen we have above average wave players. Adding Mitchell to the fold shores up that position for a few years.

I would think it also crosses off safety as a list

[Dwinsgames]

Mike Mitchell ‏@MikeMitchell34 (https://twitter.com/MikeMitchell34) 3m (https://twitter.com/MikeMitchell34/status/443553743754104832) Landed safely in Pittsburgh! Let's get it started!

[st33lersguy]

He looks like he could be another Ryan Clark. The Steelers do free agency correctly, avoid a splash, build largely through the draft, and sign a few lower key guys that can make a contribution.

[LLT]

I would think it also crosses off safety as a list

Which is great. I think that limits our first round choice to CB or DE...with an outside chance at WR or ILB, if the right player fell.

[Spike]

5 years $25 million per Adam Schefter


that's quite a jump from his 1 yr $1M he was signed for last year

Steelers must have lots of faith in him

[86WARD]

Like to hear how that contract is structured...and what is and isn't "real money."

[dislocatedday]

I don't want to get too off topic here, but I wonder what idiot in the media is going to be the first one from this point forward to say that "The Steelers are Old and Slow" on defense. I'm looking at the projected starting roster, and only Troy and Ike will be over 30 years of age at the start of the season (...and I'm not even sure Ike will be starting...).

Also, what in the world is the management in Oakland doing the last couple offseasons? Despite all the cap room they have had available, they let Mike Mitchell walk a year ago, and this year they are letting Lamarr Houston and Jared Veldheer go without any apparent attempt to resign them. They consistently let go of what little available young talent they have. It makes no sense to me.

[LLT]

5 years $25 million per Adam Schefter


that's quite a jump from his 1 yr $1M he was signed for last year

Steelers must have lots of faith in him

The Eagles were trying hard to sign Mitchell, but had to settle with Malcom Jenkins . They paid $16.25 mil over three years for their second choice. We got a bargain.

[Dwinsgames]

I don't want to get too off topic here, but I wonder what idiot in the media is going to be the first one from this point forward to say that "The Steelers are Old and Slow" on defense. I'm looking at the projected starting roster, and only Troy and Ike will be over 30 years of age at the start of the season (...and I'm not even sure Ike will be starting...).

Also, what in the world is the management in Oakland doing the last couple offseasons? Despite all the cap room they have had available, they let Mike Mitchell walk a year ago, and this year they are letting Lamarr Houston and Jared Veldheer go without any apparent attempt to resign them. They consistently let go of what little available young talent they have. It makes no sense to me.


Veldheer graded out as one of the top LT in the game last season and they let him walk for LESS than they paid one of the worst to replace him .... a senile Al would not have done that and some claim they are now better off ..I am not so sure

[LLT]

I don't want to get too off topic here, but I wonder what idiot in the media is going to be the first one from this point forward to say that "The Steelers are Old and Slow" on defense. I'm looking at the projected starting roster, and only Troy and Ike will be over 30 years of age at the start of the season (...and I'm not even sure Ike will be starting...).

Also, what in the world is the management in Oakland doing the last couple offseasons? Despite all the cap room they have had available, they let Mike Mitchell walk a year ago, and this year they are letting Lamarr Houston and Jared Veldheer go without any apparent attempt to resign them. They consistently let go of what little available young talent they have. It makes no sense to me.

In their defense, just a few years ago they were in cap space hell....I think this is all a part of their attempt to start over and once again become an attractive place for FA's to land. They are going to go young and attempt to draft smarter.

[dislocatedday]

In their defense, just a few years ago they were in cap space hell....I think this is all a part of their attempt to start over and once again become an attractive place for FA's to land. They are going to go young and attempt to draft smarter.

Yes, that is a good point. They did get themselves out of cap purgatory, and maybe Veldheer and Houston did not want to be there for the "re-building". As an outsider and non-Raiders fan though, it just looks like questionable management of their roster.

[Count Steeler]

Looks like a good pick up for the Steelers. Looks to add some spark to the defense.

If we could pick up an ILB (draft or FA or Spence :pray:) and a quality CB in the draft, things will really be looking up for this team and for Ben's tenure.

[dislocatedday]

Looks like a good pick up for the Steelers. Looks to add some spark to the defense.

If we could pick up an ILB (draft or FA or Spence :pray:) and a quality CB in the draft, things will really be looking up for this team and for Ben's tenure.

Throw in a NT too for the cherry on top of that wishlist !!

[LLT]

Yes, that is a good point. They did get themselves out of cap purgatory, and maybe Veldheer and Houston did not want to be there for the "re-building". As an outsider and non-Raiders fan though, it just looks like questionable management of their roster.

Well...the ghost of Al Davis still haunts the place, so look for more questionable management.

[Dwinsgames]

to help put the Mitchell deal in perspective 5 year 25 mill ......

check this one out ....

Adam Schefter ‏@AdamSchefter (https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter) 3m (https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/443564616140849152) Saints are giving former Bills S Jairus Byrd a six-year, $54 million contract, including $28 million guaranteed, per source.

[Shoes]

When I saw it come across the board the Steelers signed a safety, I had to double check something.
Mike Mitchell… wasn’t that the guy the Raiders took in round two several years ago, and the entire ESPN staff essentially said “who?”

http://network.yardbarker.com/nfl/article_external/so_who_is_mike_mitchell/15982708

[LLT]

Looks like a good pick up for the Steelers. Looks to add some spark to the defense.

If we could pick up an ILB (draft or FA or Spence :pray:) and a quality CB in the draft, things will really be looking up for this team and for Ben's tenure.

In a perfect world we could pick up LB Wesley Woodyard in free agency...draft Dennard in the 1st round...DE Tuitt slips to us in the 2nd round... WR Donte Moncrief is there at the end of the 3rd...and CB Gaines is there in the 4th.

[Count Steeler]

In a perfect world we could pick up LB Wesley Woodyard in free agency...draft Dennard in the 1st round...DE Tuitt slips to us in the 2nd round... WR Donte Moncrief is there at the end of the 3rd...and CB Gaines is there in the 4th.

And Ben would be wearing #7 by this time next year. (Get it?)

[Psycho Ward 86]

In a perfect world we could pick up LB Wesley Woodyard in free agency...draft Dennard in the 1st round...DE Tuitt slips to us in the 2nd round... WR Donte Moncrief is there at the end of the 3rd...and CB Gaines is there in the 4th.

yes. a thousand times yes. if we had to have one more big pick up in FA, woodyard would be awesome. i heard he only had a down year because of a stinger. Phenomenal cover LB.

[katmandu]

Which is great. I think that limits our first round choice to CB or DE...with an outside chance at WR or ILB, if the right player fell.Exactly.

[LLT]

And Ben would be wearing #7 by this time next year. (Get it?)

LOL...yea...I get it!!

[Texasteel]

In a perfect world we could pick up LB Wesley Woodyard in free agency...draft Dennard in the 1st round...DE Tuitt slips to us in the 2nd round... WR Donte Moncrief is there at the end of the 3rd...and CB Gaines is there in the 4th.

While we're dreaming, lets pick up Gillmore and Ellis in the 5th.

[katmandu]

Is it safe to assume Ha-Ha Dix is off our radar now ?

[X-Terminator]

First I was happy when I read that he was a solid signing, then disappointed when reading about his tackling shortcomings. Now, I don't know what to think and just hope the guy pans out.

[LLT]

While we're dreaming, lets pick up Gillmore and Ellis in the 5th.

I think Dennard in the 1st and Gaines in the 4th are definite possibilities. But realistically I think in the 2nd we could take Kelcy Quarles, who we would move to DE. In the third there is a chance that TE Fiedorowicz is still on the board. And I know that you and I both like Jeff Janis as a WR in the latter rounds.

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First I was happy when I read that he was a solid signing, then disappointed when reading about his tackling shortcomings. Now, I don't know what to think and just hope the guy pans out.

Think Ryan Clark...with speed and better hands....and a tendency to throw his shoulder instead of wrap.

[Texasteel]

I think Dennard in the 1st and Gaines in the 4th are definite possibilities. But realistically I think in the 2nd we could take Kelcy Quarles, who we would move to DE. In the third there is a chance that TE Fiedorowicz is still on the board. And I know that you and I both like Jeff Janis as a WR in the latter rounds.

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That looks a bit more likely, and still one hell of a draft.

[Shoes]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Njp7hTQGQ-4

[Texasteel]

In a perfect world we could pick up LB Wesley Woodyard in free agency...draft Dennard in the 1st round...DE Tuitt slips to us in the 2nd round... WR Donte Moncrief is there at the end of the 3rd...and CB Gaines is there in the 4th.

You know Perry, the addition of Mitchell, Woodyard, Dennard, Gaines, and any kind of upgrade at DE. ( and this could happen ), This would not even look like the same defense we put on the field last year. Growing pains? You bet, but it would be exciting.

[LLT]

You know Perry, the addition of Mitchell, Woodyard, Dennard, Gaines, and any kind of upgrade at DE. ( and this could happen ), This would not even look like the same defense we put on the field last year. Growing pains? You bet, but it would be exciting.

Take a look at Kelcy Quarles or Dominique Easley (if he is healed)...both would be exciting at DE in the second round

[Texasteel]

Take a look at Kelcy Quarles or Dominique Easley (if he is healed)...both would be exciting at DE in the second round

I was big on Easley at the beginning of the year, but starting to get a little worried about his injuries ( hasn't he had a torn ACL twice now). Both are explosive at the snap. Quarles is a little bit bigger and has those long arms I like to see on a DL. Both have been pretty productive as well, but because of the injuries, I think I might prefer Quarles. I prefer Tuitt if he's there, but don't think it's likely.

[Psycho Ward 86]

Here's what they think about this on the panthers forum: http://www.carolinahuddle.com/boards/topic/98579-mitchell-to-the-steelers/

And another clip of mike mitchell
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAdTPlVIqa8

[Randy06]

Hope he works out for us. Excited to see him play!

[Aussie_steeler]

Had an inkling that we were going to get a Ryan Clark like signing ( 2nd tier experienced FS)

Looks very much like this season will be:

FS: Mike Mitchell ( Robert Golden backup)
SS: Troy Polamalu ( Will Allen backup)
Nickel Corner: Shamarko Thomas ( Starting SS 2016)
CB's: Cortez Allen, Ike Taylor, William Gay, 2 Draft picks

If there is going to be a camp casualty it can only be Robert Golden.

This really brings Dennard into play at #15.

[Spike]

The Eagles were trying hard to sign Mitchell, but had to settle with Malcom Jenkins . They paid $16.25 mil over three years for their second choice. We got a bargain.

Depends, the problem I have with that type of money is what did he REALLY do over 12 months to change the opinion of front office executives like ours from first considering him a scrap heap free agent signing a year ago to now worth 5-year, $25 million? Just because the Eagles wanted him?

It certainly seems out of character for the Steelers to jump in with both feet on a player with such a huge contract for basically a one year wonder, TJ Ward got $5.5M for 4 years/$23 million; $14 million guaranteed. This guy wasn't on anyone's top 100 FA list.

He could be a product of their system, we won't know till he's on the field, I guess. If this was a desperation move to fill a huge hole and he doesn't pan out there will be hell to pay for such a leap of faith..

[Mojouw]

Depends, the problem I have with that type of money is what did he REALLY do over 12 months to change the opinion of front office executives like ours from first considering him a scrap heap free agent signing a year ago to now worth 5-year, $25 million? Just because the Eagles wanted him?

It certainly seems out of character for the Steelers to jump in with both feet on a player with such a huge contract for basically a one year wonder, TJ Ward got $5.5M for 4 years/$23 million; $14 million guaranteed. This guy wasn't on anyone's top 100 FA list.

He could be a product of their system, we won't know till he's on the field, I guess. If this was a desperation move to fill a huge hole and he doesn't pan out there will be hell to pay for such a leap of faith..

If Mitchell is more of a coverage guy who can sometimes lay the wood - and I hope from the tackling stats that is the case - then he makes sense for the Steelers over Ward. Ward is best in the box and nosing around in run support. Steelers already have that in Polamalu and Shamarko. Don't get me wrong, I am sure Ward would have made the defense better, but isn't the "ideal" fit. What they didn't have is a "centerfielder". Hopefully Mitchell is or can be that guy. If he is - then he is worth 5 million per to the Steelers. If he isn't - hope very little of that cash is guaranteed!

Still not sure that money wouldn't have been better in Verner's pocket.

[Dwinsgames]

You know Perry, the addition of Mitchell, Woodyard, Dennard, Gaines, and any kind of upgrade at DE. ( and this could happen ), This would not even look like the same defense we put on the field last year. Growing pains? You bet, but it would be exciting.

Josh Mauro

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Still not sure that money wouldn't have been better in Verner's pocket.


CB is much deeper in the draft than S this year and probably why they went that route

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First I was happy when I read that he was a solid signing, then disappointed when reading about his tackling shortcomings. Now, I don't know what to think and just hope the guy pans out.

lets not forget while he did miss several tackles he was still able to make enough to be the 3rd leading tackler on his team last year ( a team with a solid Def at that )

[Mojouw]

For what it is worth, this guy hates the move...

http://grantland.com/features/free-agent-frenzyhttp://grantland.com/features/free-agent-frenzy/

[Spike]

If Mitchell is more of a coverage guy who can sometimes lay the wood - and I hope from the tackling stats that is the case - then he makes sense for the Steelers over Ward.

Still not sure that money wouldn't have been better in Verner's pocket.

I'm not trying rain on anyone's parade, there's just not much to go on...have to see that guaranteed money - I looked around and found the 49ers were looking at him too....

Mike Mitchell is an interesting player because we're still trying to work out where his success came from in 2013. There's a good chance he was a product of being inside a system that allowed him to flourish, but there's more to it that just that.

Mitchell is aggressive, sometimes to his own detriment. He plays hard and with confidence, which will sometimes leave you scratching your head wondering why he didn't just sensibly wrap up a tackle rather than go for the knock out hit.

Ultimately he's a utility guy. I don't believe he's a long-term starting option, but an excellent gap filler. An organization that needs a couple of years will gain a player who won't win games for you, or really lose them. Sure he'll give up a bad penalty here or there, but he'll follow it up with a key pass breakup or a wow play that makes you forget the dumb mistake earlier.


I just get the feeling that if the Browns had made this kinda money move everyone would be saying "WHO????" and laughing

[Dwinsgames]

still seeing the why? from some , still seeing the what did he do to go from a roster filler to a 5 million dollar man in a season ...

here are a few scraps I read to chew on and perhaps help get you those answers ...

3rd leading tackler on a solid def in 2013
4 ints in 2013 ( double the amount of our best producer in the secondary in same year )
Bigger, stronger and faster than Clark but lays the wood with the same intensity
opponents QB Rating against when throwing at Mitchell in 2013 was 50.6

those things to me points at astronomical upgrade

[Spike]

He better work out - we shot our wad in free agency on him

But how will he work with Troy in LeBeau's defense? that's what remains to be seen

[Dwinsgames]

But how will he work with Troy in LeBeau's defense? that's what remains to be seen

that would be the case with any FA or draft pick , its always a roll of the dice , you do your homework and minimize your potential mistakes as much as possible but at the end of the day every move is a gamble ..no such thing as a sure thing in sports its all about risk management , minimize the risk as much as possible but there will always be risk

[Steelman]

He's Ryan Clark 2.0. Nothing more, nothing less. I think we overpaid a little, but if he can be a new rock in the secondary then maybe it'll be worth it.

[Dwinsgames]

He's Ryan Clark 2.0. Nothing more, nothing less. I think we overpaid a little, but if he can be a new rock in the secondary then maybe it'll be worth it.

I disagree with that sorry ...

Mitchell had more sacks in 2013 than Ryan Clark has in his entire career ....

Mitchell had 1/4 of Ryan Clarks career ints in 2013 alone

Mitchell is bigger , stronger and faster than Ryan Clark ever has been at any point in his career ( or lifetime )

Mitchell can play in Denver

Mitchell could be considered a better version of Ryan Clark perhaps but not Ryan Clark 2.0

- - - Updated - - -

word is only 5 million of the 25 million is guaranteed money for the Mitchell deal so basically 1 seasons worth of the deal

[Psycho Ward 86]

Mike Mitchell is getting only $5.25 million in guaranteed money.

WOW. This deal is sensational, his cap hit is only $1.7 million for the upcoming season.

http://www.steelersdepot.com/2014/03/steelers-new-s-mike-mitchell-given-only-5-25-million-guaranteed/

[Dwinsgames]

Mike Mitchell is getting only $5.25 million in guaranteed money.

WOW. This deal is sensational, his cap hit is only $1.7 million for the upcoming season.

http://www.steelersdepot.com/2014/03/steelers-new-s-mike-mitchell-given-only-5-25-million-guaranteed/


meaning we can still play if we want ( in FA ) whether its sign our own or others

[Spike]

the real numbers in the deal

According to Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun on Twitter, Mitchell received $5.25 million guaranteed in the deal of which $4.75 million was a signing bonus.

Mitchell's base salaries will be $750,000, $2 million, $5 million, $5 million and $5 million over the course of the five years and that means his 2014 cap charge will be a meager $1.7 million.

Mitchell's cap charge in 2015 will be $2.95 million and the final three years of the deal will carry each carry cap charges of $5.95 million.


thanks - those numbers look better

[Spike]

meaning we can still play if we want ( in FA ) whether its sign our own or others

we did sign Allen and Warren

per twitter, we're not hosting any FAs today.

[86WARD]

The people that are really happy about this are the suckers that bought a Rashard Mendenhall Jersey...great possibility that just the cost of a name plate will make their jersey current!!

[GBMelBlount]

So with Mitchell's deal being pallatible what are the chances of us grabbing another affordable defensive player that would be an immediate upgrade?

[katmandu]

Mitchell had more sacks in 2013 than Ryan Clark has in his entire career ....

Mitchell had 1/4 of Ryan Clarks career ints in 2013 alone

Mitchell is bigger , stronger and faster than Ryan Clark ever has been at any point in his career ( or lifetime )

Mitchell can play in Denver

Mitchell could be considered a better version of Ryan Clark perhaps but not Ryan Clark 2.0PLUS Mitchell will have the huge benefit of having Coach LeBeau, Carnell Lake and Troy Polamalu coaching him!

[Texasteel]

still seeing the why? from some , still seeing the what did he do to go from a roster filler to a 5 million dollar man in a season ...

here are a few scraps I read to chew on and perhaps help get you those answers ...

3rd leading tackler on a solid def in 2013
4 ints in 2013 ( double the amount of our best producer in the secondary in same year )
Bigger, stronger and faster than Clark but lays the wood with the same intensity
opponents QB Rating against when throwing at Mitchell in 2013 was 50.6

those things to me points at astronomical upgrade


Why? Because the team wanted him bad enough to give him 25 mil. to get him here. This is the same question we heard over and over when we signed Clark, and it still has the same answer. By the way, is anyone still asking, why Clark, I don't think so. Michell may come here and disappoint, none of us really know. But looking at the guys history, and hearing what most of the fans of the team he is leaving are saying, and taking into account that our coaches want him, I believe these guys have a good idea what they are doing, I would say right here and right now I am pleased with the move, and can't wait to see him on the field. We still have a lot of work to do, but we can check safety off.

By the way, I totally agree with you Dwins. I think Mitchell is coming to Pittsburgh with more than Clark did. and I don't mean money.

[Dwinsgames]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bii5pi4CYAAPdPB.jpg


signed / sealed /delivered

[salamander]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bii5pi4CYAAPdPB.jpg


signed / sealed /delivered

Beat me to it. Was just going to post that.

[Spike]

Aditi on NFL channel hinting with twinkle in her eye that Foote and Keisel might not be done with the Steelers just yet and trying hard to get Cotchery deal done

[Dwinsgames]

Aditi on NFL channel hinting with twinkle in her eye that Foote and Keisel might not be done with the Steelers just yet and trying hard to get Cotchery deal done


not sure how Foote signing would help in terms of the cap , vet min minus new cba rule ( counting half vs cap on 1 year deal ) + dead money from cutting him = 100k less than he was originally making prior to cutting him ....

why bother making the cut other than headlines ?

[Steelerette]

It would make sense if what they did was try to get someone else on the market, couldn't do it, then resigned Foote. But no point in resigning him already.

[Dwinsgames]

Mike Mitchell ‏@MikeMitchell34 (https://twitter.com/MikeMitchell34) 1m (https://twitter.com/MikeMitchell34/status/443832738223648768) My thumbs do not move fast enough to keep up with y'all. I want everyone to know how humbled/thankful I am for your support!

[vader29]

Aditi on NFL channel hinting with twinkle in her eye that Foote and Keisel might not be done with the Steelers just yet and trying hard to get Cotchery deal done

443821504791601153

[Aussie_steeler]

I think the Ryan Clark 2.0 reference is a direct comparison as to how Clark arrived at the steelers. Many had little idea who Ryan Clark was all those years back.

Most of the comparisons made are on a superficial scale. When you look deeper into Mike Mitchells game it is obvious he is bigger, faster and stronger and has made more plays on the ball (in his breakout season)

I like the deal. You get to try him out for a couple of years. If he works out his contract upgrade already exists in the back half of the contract. If he fails then you can walk away at very little cost. It looks like it if Mitchell plays well, he then earns security and good money.

The low cap hit this year also allows for the steelers Free agents to be resigned. Al Woods or Ziggy Hood, one must be brought back.

He is not Jarius Byrd, but he is a relatively safe pickup.

[LLT]

Why? Because the team wanted him bad enough to give him 25 mil. to get him here. This is the same question we heard over and over when we signed Clark, and it still has the same answer. By the way, is anyone still asking, why Clark, I don't think so. Michell may come here and disappoint, none of us really know. But looking at the guys history, and hearing what most of the fans of the team he is leaving are saying, and taking into account that our coaches want him, I believe these guys have a good idea what they are doing, I would say right here and right now I am pleased with the move, and can't wait to see him on the field. We still have a lot of work to do, but we can check safety off.

By the way, I totally agree with you Dwins. I think Mitchell is coming to Pittsburgh with more than Clark did. and I don't mean money.

And as someone else mentioned....Farrior was considered a bust before he came to Pittsburgh. Getting Mitchell out of Oakland was what he needed to thrive...getting him to Pittsburgh gives him every opportunity to build on that.

[ALLD]

You know Perry, the addition of Mitchell, Woodyard, Dennard, Gaines, and any kind of upgrade at DE. ( and this could happen ), This would not even look like the same defense we put on the field last year. Growing pains? You bet, but it would be exciting.


New paradigm with the Seahawk's D. No longer is it necessary to fill your roster with same team vets. You will never see a team like the 1979 Steelers again.

[86WARD]

The people that are really happy about this are the suckers that bought a Rashard Mendenhall Jersey...great possibility that just the cost of a name plate will make their jersey current!!

Sounds like he's trying to get #21 from Golden...

[LLT]

Sounds like he's trying to get #21 from Golden...

If he is patient...it might be available soon.

[Dwinsgames]

http://www.steelers.com/video-and-audio/videos/Update-Steelers-sign-Mike-Mitchell/ad52c7eb-2dcb-4fe9-8e2d-95b07ccbe12d

[steelerdude15]

I'm happy with the signing. He sounds like a solid player and a good guy from what I've seen in interviews. I think D mentioned that he is bigger than Ryan ever has been and he definitely looks bigger. I hope that he thrives here and does a great job. He's got a good coaching staff and players to be around with. I hope he keeps himself out of trouble off the field too.

[Count Steeler]

the real numbers in the deal

According to Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun on Twitter, Mitchell received $5.25 million guaranteed in the deal of which $4.75 million was a signing bonus.

Mitchell's base salaries will be $750,000, $2 million, $5 million, $5 million and $5 million over the course of the five years and that means his 2014 cap charge will be a meager $1.7 million.

Mitchell's cap charge in 2015 will be $2.95 million and the final three years of the deal will carry each carry cap charges of $5.95 million.


thanks - those numbers look better

I love this contract. Not only do the Steelers keep some cap space, but Mitchell has to play solidly for the first 2 years or else he is gone and the Steelers are able to get another safety.

[86WARD]

If he is patient...it might be available soon.

Lol...true dat!

[Dwinsgames]

presser here in 7 min live http://www.steelers.com/video-and-audio/videos/Steelerscom-LIVE-at-4/1f85962e-74aa-4e8d-89fb-3e12c8be2b05

[Dwinsgames]

was a good presser ... really like his attitude towards the game , the team etc ...say no man will outwork him and they will die trying before he does ...

oh to be a fly on the wall if he and Sharmarko ever work out together

[stillers4me]

Wow. I just got a chance to watch the video of the press conference on steelers.com and I'm very impressed with this young man! I can't wait to see him on the field after he's had a chance to work with our coaches and Troy. If he is as smart of a player as he comes across as a speaker....look out!

[HollywoodSteel]

And as someone else mentioned....Farrior was considered a bust before he came to Pittsburgh. Getting Mitchell out of Oakland was what he needed to thrive...getting him to Pittsburgh gives him every opportunity to build on that.

Is that right about Farrior? I remember being really happy when we got him because he impressed me whenever I saw him playing for the Jets. Maybe I was in the minority or happened to catch him on good days. He always seemed smart, instinctual, and a fierce tackler. Were most people really not happy about the move? Not that any of that matters at this point. I was just surprised by the comment, but I respect your football knowledge and memory so maybe I just wasn't paying attention to the chatter at the time.

[tube517]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Biku4zICIAAp155.jpg

Not sure that will be his number yet. :noidea:

[Shoes]

What got my attention was his on the job training experience. He didn't have a older vet showing him the ropes…..Sometimes being thrown into the mix with no help will form a strong leader. With a bit of help from our vets I can only see a bright future for this young man and the Steelers at this position.

[Jaucer]

Finally got to watch the presser. Very impressed with him. He's well thought out and just the fact that he has good English says something to me.

[katmandu]

Wow. I just got a chance to watch the video of the press conference on steelers.com and I'm very impressed with this young man! I can't wait to see him on the field after he's had a chance to work with our coaches and Troy. If he is as smart of a player as he comes across as a speaker....look out!x2! I just watched the video and came away very impressed as well!

Yinz NEED to see this video!

http://www.steelers.com/video-and-audio/videos/LIVE_Special_Guest_Mike_Mitchell/5505b65f-a8ec-4a37-a374-ef3274039684

- - - Updated - - -


Is that right about Farrior?

I remember being really happy when we got him because he impressed me whenever I saw him playing for the Jets. Yes it is. The Jets threw in the towel on him. Dumb asses.