Steelers/NFL
COMPETITION EYED FOR SUISHAM
Going into training camp, the Pittsburgh Steelers would like to add some competition for kicker Shaun Suisham.
The team today is hosting former Buffalo Bills kicker Dave Rayner who has also spent time with the Lions, Chargers, Packers and Colts.
In seven games with the Bills in 2011, Rayner made 10 of 15 field goals, hitting four 50+ field goals, including a long of 56 yards. Rayner has some leg as he hit a long of 55 with the Detroit Lions in 2010, where he made 13 of 16 field goals for the Lions in 8 games. Rayner’s a career 72.2% field goal kicker, making 65 of 90 field goals in his career. While he has some leg, Rayner struggles with his accuracy.
The Steelers last season didn’t have much faith in Suisham in clutch situations.
After hitting 14 of 15 field goals in 2010, Suisham made 23 of 31 field goals in 2011, clicking at 74.2%.
Meanwhile, the team is also hosting linebackers Matt Roth and Brandon Johnson. Roth, 29, a former second round pick, has some pass rushing ability at the outside linebacker position in a potential backup role. He had 3.5 sacks in 9 games for Jacksonville in 2011.
Johnson can play inside and outside and would be brought in more for a special team’s purpose. He was the Bengals special team’s captain last year.
