Is Shaun Suisham’s Injury Worse Than Expected?

Yikes. That headline really has the crystal ball approach, doesn’t it? But how will we know, at this time, if Shaun Suisham isn’t in worse shape than what’s publicly stated thus far?

What we do know is this:

  • Suisham is out for the season with a torn ACL
  • The Steelers traded a sixth-round 2016 draft pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars for Josh Scobee

Upon first glance, one would think that investing a sixth-rounder in a kicker might mean the incumbent is in worse shape than previously thought. I mean, an ACL tear is no joke to begin with, and we already know that Suisham is lost for the season. But what if he’s lost for his career?

That’s a definite possibility. Or perhaps the team is more heavily invested in winning now and a sixth-round pick is the price of mortgaging the future for this season.

My opinion is this: the Steelers front office was not only desperate for a reliable kicker now, they also wanted a player in their system that could be there for the next few years. Scobee certainly fits the profile, however, he also rejected a 2nd-year on his contract, stating:

“First and foremost, Shaun Suisham has been an excellent kicker here… So I’m not trying to come in and take his job. I’m not saying that next year I’m going to be here because I don’t know.”

What we could see is a camp battle next year between 2 veteran kickers. I believe it’s smart that Pittsburgh is thinking ahead, considering the mess they’ve had over nearly a decade with punters. Recovering from ligament damage in the knee is never a certainty, and having a potential insurance policy with Scobee next season, would be smart.

There’s no clear indication that he will end up extending his contract with the Steelers. Shaun Suisham was also extended this offseason; his contract runs through 2018. However, should we see any halt in Shaun’s recovery, don’t be surprised if they bring the former Jag aboard again for 2016.


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