Chances are Steelers inside linebacker Farrior won't be back

[mesaSteeler]

Chances are Steelers inside linebacker Farrior won't be back

By Scott Brown
PITTSBURGH TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Friday, March 2, 2012

James Farrior's agent said the inside linebacker could be the next Steeler to go.

"It's not a done deal, but the percentages just aren't there," Ralph Cindrich said about Farrior's return.

Farrior knows no player is safe while the Steelers shed salary to create flexibility under the 2012 salary cap.

Farrior, who turned 37 in January, is entering the final year of his contract. He is scheduled to make about $2.8 million.

Cindrich said he has not had discussions with the Steelers regarding Farrior or whether the two-time Pro Bowler would be willing to restructure his contract or take a pay cut. Farrior plans to play elsewhere if released.

"James wants to play and wants to play with the Steelers," Cindrich said. "The question is, 'Do they have room for him?' "

Farrior finished fourth on the team with 90 tackles last season, but the Steelers spelled him at times with Larry Foote, who is also entering the final year of his contract.

Farrior has been one of the Steelers' most durable and productive players over the past decade.

The 6-foot-2, 243-pounder has started 153 games since signing as an unrestricted free agent in 2002. He missed two games last season with a calf injury, snapping a streak of 93 consecutive games played.

Contract talk

The agent for receiver Jerricho Cotchery said he had "productive talks" with the Steelers at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Cotchery, an unrestricted free agent, caught 16 passes for 237 yards and two touchdowns last season. The eight-year veteran would play a more prominent role in the offense next season with Hines Ward's departure. Cotchery, 29, is seeking a multiyear contract.

"Jerricho Cotchery would very much like to be back," agent Jack Scharf said.

Scott Brown can be reached at sbrown@tribweb.com or 412-481-5432.



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[steeltheone]

It will be interesting to see what the Steelers offer Crotch...