What About Tight Ends?

[feltdizz]

McDonald at a 4 million dollar cap hit is a luxury we can't afford.

I think we can afford 4 million dollars, the problem is his health. Can we afford 4 mill if he misses another 5 or 6 games or however he many he missed last year?

honestly, I think you are right. looking at his stats there is nothing that stands out but maybe we are paying for his blocking and not his hands.

[Buzz]

McDonald is the best TE on the roster. Easily the best blocking TE. The problem is his health. Ask him to rework his contract into a 3-year deal that pays about 1.5M the first year, with incentives. Make it cap-friendly so it's easy to get out of if he doesn't pan out. If he doesn't like that offer, let him hit the road.

[phillyesq]

The Steelers official team account on twitter just posted the following:

"The trade for Vance McDonald brought the team a player they believe can be a No. 1 tight end."

Based on that, I'd suspect that he is not going anywhere and will return next year.

[Captain Lemming]

Weak and slow is not the way the Steelers like their TE's...

We traditionally like strong and slow.

[Chadman]

I’d say Buzz just got it right- rework the contract to suit the Steelers needs & he’s a keeper. If he’s costing $4m a year, send him on his way. My brother is a SF supporter & he laughed when the Steelers traded for him- called him the most frustrating 49er on the roster- dropped catches, concussions.

There is talent. And JJ & Gimble are good options behind him to take a ‘risk’ at keeping him about- but it can’t be at $4m I wouldn’t think.

If he’s sent packing, you take an athletic type TE somewhere in the first 3 rounds & run with it.

[Ernie]

The Steelers official team account on twitter just posted the following:

"The trade for Vance McDonald brought the team a player they believe can be a No. 1 tight end."

Based on that, I'd suspect that he is not going anywhere and will return next year.

I am glad they are looking to keep him. He can do it all...and do it all well.. Just need him to stay healthy, but of course that same can be said about anyone on the roster.