Steelers' Joe Haden Will Play Out Current Contract, Test Free Agency in 2022

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden has decided to test the free-agent market following the 2021 NFL season after being unable to come to terms with the team on a contract extension.

"Joe has never been a UFA before and is excited about that opportunity," Drew Rosenhaus, Haden's agent, told ESPN's Adam Schefter on Wednesday. "We expect him to have a very strong market."

The three-time Pro Bowl selection is entering the final season of a two-year, $22.4 million contract.

Put simply, declaring the intent to hit free agency next offseason before a single snap of the 2021 campaign is played feels like a negotiation tactic by a veteran agent like Rosenhaus. He previously told Schefter the corner wanted to stay in Pittsburgh.

"Joe wants to finish his career with the Steelers, if possible," Rosenhaus said in August.

Haden joined the Steelers in 2017 after starting his career as a member of the AFC North rival Cleveland Browns for seven years.

The 32-year-old University of Florida product has been mostly productive in recent years, including five interceptions en route to a Pro Bowl appearance in 2019, but he received a mediocre 66.6 overall grade from Pro Football Focus last season.

Haden will remain a starter for the Steelers in 2021, and the amount of interest he receives should he hit the free-agent market next offseason will be heavily tied to his performance this season. Non-quarterbacks in their mid-30s rarely receive lucrative long-term contracts.

Despite Rosenhaus' comments, it wouldn't be a surprise if the Maryland native ultimately re-signs with Pittsburgh before free agency arrives next March, especially if he puts together a solid year.

"I'm probably about the same speed as five years ago, but 10 years ago, maybe not," Haden told reporters in August.

The Steelers kick off the regular season Sept. 12 when they visit Highmark Stadium for a key AFC showdown with the Buffalo Bills. It'll be a tough initial test for Haden and the pass defense.