Mike Wallace: Why It Looks Like Pittsburgh Steelers Won't Lose Star WR

The Pittsburgh Steelers gave a first-round restricted free agent tender to wide receiver Mike Wallace yesterday, worth $2.75 million in 2012.

This means he could potentially leave the team for another that offers him a front-loaded contract the Steelers are unable to match. However, a few developments on Monday have significantly lowered the risk of that happening.

First was the San Francisco 49ers' signing of Randy Moss, announced last night. The 49ers were considered top contenders to make a move for Wallace, but they chose to go with the less-expensive Moss and a one-year deal rather than splurge for Wallace's services.

That signing led to a ripple effect. According to the NFL Network's Jason LaCanfora, the Moss signing makes Brandon Lloyd a top target for the New England Patriots (the other team believed to be in the mix when it comes to Wallace).

LaCanfora went on to say that Vincent Jackson, another top free agent receiver, would be in play for his old team, the San Diego Chargers, as well as the Chicago Bears and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Washington Redskins, who are financially hamstrung after yesterday's league ruling that strips them of $36 million in cap money, might have to pursue the less-expensive Eddie Royal.

Most telling is that LaCanfora did not make mention of Wallace at all. This is because, thanks to the Moss signing, the market has practically dried up overnight.

While this may not be good news for Wallace (depending on whether or not the Steelers ultimately make a contract offer), it does make it look more likely that the Steelers can keep Wallace on the roster in 2012 than it did just a day ago.

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