RFA Emmanuel Sanders visiting Patriots, could sign offer sheet

Here’s a surprising development in Steelers circles. Restricted free agent Emmanuel Sanders is visiting the New England Patriots today, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN, and Schefter reports the Patriots are interested in signing Sanders to an offer sheet.

The Steelers would receive a third round pick if Sanders signed an offer sheet and they opted not to match.

Sanders, 25, had 44 receptions for 626 yards and 1 touchdown in 2012.

In his career, Sanders has 94 receptions for 1290 yards and 5 touchdowns in three seasons. He’s been plagued by foot and knee issues in his young career but stayed healthy last season.

Sanders is said to be viewed by Steelers coaches as more of a No. 3 receiver than a No. 2, and the Steelers are an organization that feels receivers are one of the easiest positions to replace. Things will get interesting if Sanders signs an offer sheet.

The Steelers have three wide receivers under contract in Antonio Brown, Plaxico Burress and Jerricho Cotchery.