Steelers' Haden to play out contract, test free agency in 2022

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden has decided to play out the remainder of his contract and test free agency in 2022, his agent Drew Rosenhaus told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Haden previously approached the Steelers for a contract extension in hopes of his finishing his career in Pittsburgh, Schefter adds. He's in the final season of a two-year, $22.4-million contract.

"Joe has never been an (unrestricted free agent) before and is excited about that opportunity," Rosenhaus said. "We expect him to have a very strong market."

Haden is scheduled to earn $7 million in base salary this season, which is tied for the seventh-most among all cornerbacks, according to Spotrac.

The 32-year-old spent the first seven seasons of his career with the Cleveland Browns before signing with the Steelers shortly before the 2017 campaign. He's spent the last four years leading the team's cornerback group, recording 10 interceptions and 48 pass breakups.

The Steelers have had multiple departures in their secondary this offseason, leaving Haden and Cameron Sutton as the only experienced cornerbacks remaining on the roster. Slot corner Mike Hilton signed with the Cincinnati Bengals as a free agent and Pittsburgh released Steven Nelson earlier this year.

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