Taylor had no intention to reach deal with Steelers before CBA deadline

Steelers Free Agency Buzz

The Pittsburgh Steelers, as expected, did not reach a deal with cornerback Ike Taylor before yesterday's deadline and once a new CBA is in place, the Steelers No. 1 cornerback will become a free agent.

Following a meeting between high powered agent Joel Segal and front office executive Omar Khan at the combine, what's been relayed to me for over a week now is that Taylor expressed to the Steelers that he has all intentions on testing the free agent market.

Those in the media calling Taylor re-signing with Pittsburgh a slam dunk due to Taylor wanting to stay in Pittsburgh, are said to be a "bit too optimistic" on that front.

The cornerback position has become a premium in the NFL with over 8 cornerbacks making at least $9 million in 2010 (including all bonuses).

So where does Taylors future in Pittsburgh stand?

In 2006, Taylor received a four year extension worth $22.5 million from the Steelers with $6.4 million in guarantees.

According to sources, Taylor is seeking over $10 million in guaranteed money on at least a four year deal and word around the league is that Taylor's camp believes at least two specific teams are prepared to make a "big run" at Taylor.

Leigh Bodden's four-year, $22 million agreement to remain with the New England Patriots last off-season, that included $10 million in guaranteed money and $14 million over the first two years of the deal, will just be the starting point for Taylor's camp.

On NFL agent predicted to me that Taylor will land a 4 year deal worth $24-$27 million with $12-$13 million in guaranteed money on the open market.

Just because free agency has been put on the back burner for now due to the CBA, doesn't mean tampering at the combine between agents and teams all of a sudden went away this off-season.