It’s been a difficult free agent market for safeties, but Morgan Burnett has finally found a new team.
The 29-year-old will sign a three-year deal worth in the vicinity of $14.5 million with the Pittsburgh Steelers, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported on Tuesday. Burnett has played the entirety of his eight-year pro career with the Green Bay Packers.
The #Steelers and former #Packers S Morgan Burnett, agreed to terms on 3-year deal worth close to $14.5M, source says. Finally a top safety off the board.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 20, 2018
Pittsburgh Steelers Sign Safety Morgan Burnett to Three-Year Deal
Comparatively speaking, Burnett did not have a fantastic season in 2017. He finished the year with 68 total tackles and no interceptions in 12 games played. His total of three passes defended was the lowest of his eight-year career, save his four-game rookie campaign. Once again, injury robbed Burnett of multiple starts as it has done in six seasons since 2010. The Green Bay Packers utility defender missed two games with a hamstring issue, returned for one start, then missed two more with a groin pull.
A Versatile Contributor
Burnett is a player whose true worth transcends the sum of his stat sheet. He’s a leader of men. During his time in Green Bay, the third round pick out of Georgia Tech has evolved into a multi-faceted defender with invaluable pre-snap communication skills. Burnett has played his traditional safety position as well as linebacker and slot corner. In times of rampant injuries, he’s even played outside corner when asked to do so. The Packers developed their “nitro package” in which he essentially plays linebacker, based on Burnett’s versatility.
This veteran safety goes above and beyond the call both on the field as well as in the community. Just last season, Burnett was the Packers’ nominee for the Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award. The award recognizes players who uphold the values of fair play, respect, and integrity in competition. In addition, he and his wife Nicolette recently launched The Burnett Family Foundation to lend a helping hand to Green Bay’s youth. The foundation raises money through charity events and donations.
Unquestioned Dedication
With his personal growth and the evolution of his skill set over eight years in the NFL, Burnett is a clear-cut case of value added. He still loves the game as much ever, and he’s eager to contribute in a multitude of ways. When Burnett signs a contract, his team knows he’s all in to give 100 percent, whatever the task. They know exactly what they’re getting.
