Steelers counting on Green in 2017?

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are extremely concerned about Ladarius Green’s ability to make it through a season but all signs point to the Steelers not releasing him this off-season as the cap savings would not be more than $2.7 million.

Ed Bouchette of the Post-Gazette said this week the decision is believed to have been made that Green won’t be released.

“The decision I believe has been made,” Bouchette said in his weekly chat. “He is on their roster and will remain there.”

Green, 26, appeared in just six games, producing 18 catches for 304 yards and 1 touchdown. He is due a $5 million base salary in 2017 with a $6.187 million cap hit. Releasing Green would save the Steelers only $2.625 million against the cap.

Art Rooney II a few weeks ago was non-committal on the Steelers keeping Green, saying he has a “physical condition” that the Steelers need to evaluate.

Even with the expectation Green will stay on the roster in 17, the Steelers will strongly consider drafting a tight end in the first three rounds.

STEELERS RESIGN LB STEVEN JOHNSON

Special Teams ace had six special team tackles and 1 forced fumble before his season ended with an ankle injury vs Dallas

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